Why is POSH Training Essential for Organisations
A workplace, as defined by the POSH Act, is: “Any location visited by an employee arising out of or during the course of employment, including transportation provided by the employer for commuting to and from the workplace.”
In this blog, we aim to raise awareness and encourage reflection on the importance of understanding and implementing the POSH Act in workplaces. Although the Act, its findings, and directives are available for reference and enforcement, a 2023 study conducted by Stratefix Consulting in collaboration with the NHRD (National Human Resource Development) revealed that a mere 8% of people are aware of the POSH Act. This number is alarmingly low, and we believe it needs to change.
To highlight the significance of the Act and the necessity of implementing its guidelines in organisations, this blog covers the following:
- Understanding POSH training
- Key findings and best practices
- Reasons why POSH training is crucial in organisations
What is POSH Training and Why is it More Than Just a Policy?
Understanding the POSH Act and conducting effective training begins with calling harassment what it is, rather than using softer terms like issue, conflict, or problem. Enacted by the Indian government in 2013, the POSH Act aims to address workplace sexual harassment faced by women and mandates the establishment of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in every organisation. During POSH training, it is essential for attendees to understand:
- What constitutes sexual harassment
- How to safely report harassment
- How to set, respect, and recognise boundaries
- Their rights under the law
- Who to contact, how to report complaints, and what to do if their complaint isn't addressed properly
- The importance of speaking out and intervening if they witness abuse or harassment
More Than Just a Policy
Too often, companies treat policies like checkboxes to tick off with surface-level compliance. However, POSH training and the Act itself go far beyond that. The Act is about creating a safe, ethical, and inclusive workplace for all employees. It isn’t just another policy to implement, but one that fosters inclusivity and actively combats ableism, promoting an environment of safety and respect.
6 Reasons Why POSH Training is Essential for Organizations
If your goal is to cultivate a secure and inclusive workplace that protects the rights of all employees, understanding and implementing the POSH Act is a foundational step. Here are six reasons why every organisation must prioritise POSH training:
1. Creating a Safe Space
A study by Stratefix Consulting revealed that 11% of employees would rather leave their jobs than report harassment. This is often because workplaces do not provide a secure environment for survivors to come forward. Implementing the POSH Act not only allows employees to report complaints but also ensures they are not subjected to abuse or violations in the first place.
2. Increasing Managerial Responsibility and Accountability
Managers and supervisors play a crucial role in addressing sexual harassment. POSH training ensures they are well-equipped to handle complaints, hold violators accountable, recognise harassment, and provide a safe space for survivors to approach them. Maintaining anonymity for survivors upon request is also emphasised.
3. Legal Mandate and Compliance
The POSH Act’s Section 19 outlines employer responsibilities, including organising regular workshops and awareness programs to educate employees about the provisions of the Act. However, implementing POSH is more than just fulfilling a legal mandate—it’s about doing the bare minimum to create a safe workplace.
4. Raising Awareness – Encouraging Reporting and Support
Statistics show alarming gaps in awareness:
- 22% of employees didn’t know virtual sexual harassment could be reported (Stratefix Consulting x NHRD – 2023)
- 40% of women are unaware of the measures under the POSH Act to help them (Walchand Plus x BDB India)
- 53% of HR professionals are confused by the Act (Walchand Plus x BDB India)
These numbers reflect the current state of many workplaces, which can improve with greater awareness. Employees need to understand their rights and feel assured that their complaints will be heard.
5. Promoting Equity and Inclusivity in the Workplace
Beyond addressing sexual harassment, POSH training emphasises respect, boundaries, and inclusivity. This contributes to a healthier workplace culture and promotes diversity across gender, sexual orientation, age, and race.
#### 6. Enhancing Employee Engagement and Experience
When employees feel heard and secure, they are more engaged and productive. POSH training fosters a sense of safety, which leads to better job satisfaction, higher employee retention, and a more positive work environment overall.
Best Practices for Effective POSH Training Sessions
To ensure POSH training is impactful, consider the following best practices:
- Tailor content to the specific context of the organisation for easier comprehension
- Integrate Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity as key components of POSH training
- Conduct regular training sessions, as required by law
- Train managers and supervisors on how to inform and support their teams
- Use interactive formats with open-ended questions, discussions, and case studies
- Clearly outline steps for reporting incidents
- Highlight contact details for reporting as either a victim or a bystander
- Offer distinct workshops for general POSH awareness, leadership training, and ICC members
Conclusion
The POSH Act and related training should not be viewed as just another item on the to-do list for organisations. It is a critical mandate that plays a vital role in creating safer, more inclusive workplaces. It’s time for companies to go beyond superficial compliance and take meaningful steps toward fostering safer, more respectful work environments.













