Despite well-publicized and consistent jobsite training, accusations of harassment in the workplace still occur. Investigating those allegations must be fair, comprehensive, consistent, and objective in hopes of adequately resolving the situation and avoiding possible liability.

Preparation

To ensure proper action during an investigation a few preparatory checks are recommended.

• Review the complaint. Determine whether a full, official investigation is required or whether lesser actions might be effective, such as meeting with the victim and the accused together to mediate differences.
• Review company policy documents. Has sufficient notice and training been provided to employees? If not, immediately schedule in-depth training.
• Review personnel files. Have similar accusations involving any of the current parties been made in the past? Determine if this is part of a possible pattern or is an isolated situation.

Investigation

Once the decision to formally initiate an investigation has been made, secure all available venues of evidence, including but not limited to:

• Witness information;
• Security tapes if in existence;
• Computer files and/or emails; and
• Photographs of the incident locations and surrounding areas and exits.

Also, notify the supervisors of the complainant and defendant to ensure their cooperation. Ensure the accuser has reasonable expectations and understanding of the proceedings-that investigating does not mean official agreement with the complaint. Ensure the accuser's full cooperation, often via a signed compliance notice.

Most often, the Human Resources Department manager conducts an investigation of harassment, but the company may appoint an outside entity. Human Resources should never conduct an investigation if there is even an appearance of a conflict of interest, compromised objectivity, or impropriety.

Interviewing Witnesses

Ensure that all interviews are conducted the same way; some adaptation to circumstances can be acceptable, but refrain from asking different sets of questions to different groups or individuals.

Ensure all interviews are in a private, unobserved location. Openly recording the interviews is wise if allowed by company policy. If recorded, open the interview with a statement for the recording of all involved, date, time, location, and purpose of the interview. If a written statement is given, ensure the date, time, location, and purpose is noted and that both the interviewer and interviewee sign it. When possible, phrase questions to obtain more than a "yes" or "no" answer and follow up with additional questions to clarify answers.

Summary

Every harassment complaint should be treated with care, consideration, compassion, and integrity. Conduct investigations objectively, confidentially, and expeditiously. Above all, keep accurate records during every step, including follow-up training and meetings with involved parties and managers, as well as other company personnel. Document all actions and recommendations, including termination of employment of the harasser if dictated by fair company policy.