An evaluation of the investigation procedures in Eskom into incidents of sexual harrassment

Abstract

This research is an evaluation of the investigation procedures in Eskom into incidents of sexual harassment. Eskom has introduced a sexual harassment procedure to deal with incidents of sexual harassment that may occur in the working environment. Although the procedure dictates how incidents of sexual harassment should be dealt with, no investigative guidelines are available in the organisation to guide any person that is required, as per their respective job description, to investigate incidents of sexual harassment. This study, in pursuit of providing the above-mentioned guidelines, looks at the elements of sexual harassment, the legislation governing this irregularity and the role of evidence in a sexual harassment investigation. In addition, this study assesses the current Eskom sexual harassment procedure, evaluates it and provides information about the identification and individualisation of the act of sexual harassment.