POSH Policy Template Download

Handle workplace sexual harassment complaints easily with a ready-to-use POSH policy PDF template.

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What is POSH Policy?

POSH stands for “Prevention of Sexual Harassment.” A POSH Policy is a workplace policy that explains how a company prevents, reports, and handles sexual harassment. It includes rules, reporting steps, training, and actions taken against misconduct.

In countries like India and United States, employers are legally expected to protect employees from sexual harassment. This means companies must provide awareness training, create a complaint process, investigate cases, and take proper action when needed.

The main goal of a POSH Policy is simple. Create a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace where every employee feels secure and valued.

Why a POSH Policy is Important?

A clear POSH Policy helps you: 

  • Build a safe work culture 
  • Protect employees from harassment 
  • Follow workplace laws and compliance 
  • Give employees a safe way to report issues 
  • Reduce legal risks and workplace conflicts 

If employees feel safe, they work better and trust the organization more. 

What is Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment means any unwanted physical, verbal, or nonverbal behavior of a sexual nature that makes someone feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or disrespected at work. 

Common Examples:

  • Unwanted physical contact or advances 
  • Verbal or written sexual comments or messages 
  • Displaying sexually suggestive materials 
  • Making sexual jokes or inappropriate remarks 
  • Asking for sexual favours in exchange for job benefits 

Sexual harassment can happen to anyone. A POSH Policy ensures everyone feels safe and supported. 

POSH Policy Template (Simple Example)

Company Commitment

XYZ Company is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment. We do not tolerate sexual harassment of any kind. We take all necessary steps to prevent and address any incident.

This POSH policy explains how we prevent, report, and manage sexual harassment at work.

Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes any unwanted physical, verbal, or nonverbal sexual behavior that creates a hostile or unsafe workplace. 

This includes but is not limited to: 

  • Unwanted physical contact 
  • Sexual comments or advances 
  • Displaying inappropriate materials 
  • Offensive jokes or remarks 
  • Requests for sexual favours linked to job decisions

Reporting and Addressing Sexual Harassment

  • Employees should report incidents to HR, a supervisor, or the POSH committee. 
  • Complaints can be written or verbal. 
  • Anonymous reporting is allowed where possible. 
  • All complaints will be investigated quickly and fairly. 
  • Strict confidentiality will be maintained. 
  • No retaliation will be allowed against anyone who reports an issue. 
  • Corrective or disciplinary action will be taken if misconduct is proven. 

Preventative Measures

  • Regular POSH training for all employees 
  • A dedicated POSH committee to handle cases 
  • Open-door policy for reporting concerns 
  • Awareness programs and safe reporting channels 

POSH policy PDF template helps HR teams create a structured and compliant policy quickly. It ensures your organization follows legal guidelines and maintains a safe work environment. 

Conclusion

A POSH Policy is not just a legal requirement. It is a commitment to respect, safety, and dignity at work. A clear POSH policy template helps organizations prevent issues, support employees, and handle complaints professionally. When employees feel protected, they trust the company more and contribute better to workplace culture.

If your organization wants a safe and compliant workplace, creating and implementing a strong POSH Policy is the first step.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Start with company commitment, define sexual harassment clearly, explain reporting steps, mention investigation procedures, outline disciplinary actions, and include preventive measures like training and POSH committee roles. Make the policy simple, clear, and legally compliant. 

Key elements include: 

  • Company commitment to a safe workplace 
  • Definition of sexual harassment 
  • Reporting process 
  • Investigation procedures 
  • Disciplinary actions 
  • Confidentiality rules 
  • POSH committee details 
  • Employee training and awareness programs