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Gender-Based Violence and Harassment Prevention Policy

A Gold Standard Harassment Prevention Policy against GBVH is a comprehensive gender- prevention and response policy. It outlines expectations, training, reporting procedures, and accountability measures to ensure safe, respectful workplaces.

This a summary of the GBVH standard. Contact us for the complete Gold Standard GBVH Prevention Policy: consulting@cwit.org

What is Gender Based Violence and Harassment (GBVH)?

Gender-Based Violence and Harassment includes:
  • Sexual harassment.
  • Abuse of power.
  • Discrimination based on gender, sex, or sexual orientation.
  • Unwelcome conduct that creates a hostile work environment.

Why is GBVH a problem?

  • GBVH undermines safety, productivity, and equity on job sites.
  • Construction and trades are high-risk environments for GBVH due to:
    • Power imbalances
    • Lack of oversight
    • Cultural norms that discourage reporting

What is the Gold Standard Harassment Prevention Policy against GBVH?

  • A comprehensive Gender-Based Violence and Harassment (GBVH) prevention and response policy.
  • It outlines expectations, training, reporting procedures, and accountability measures to ensure safe, respectful workplaces.

Who is this policy for?

Contractors, subcontractors, employers and crew leaders working on construction and trade job sites.

Why is this policy important?

  • Harassment and discrimination lead to:
    • Loss of contracts and reputation
    • Legal liability
    • Workforce shortages, especially among women and marginalized groups
    • Unsafe and unproductive work environments
  • Contractors need to comply with legal requirements (especially in Chicago).
  • The construction industry needs to build an inclusive, sustainable workforce.

How does this policy help?

  • Sets clear expectations and procedures.
  • Provides legal protection and guidance.
  • Encourages a culture of accountability and respect.
  • Helps contractors retain talent and build safer, more productive teams.

When should the policy be implemented?

  • Immediately upon hiring: Must be distributed within the first week of employment.
  • Training must be conducted annually for all employees and supervisors.

Where does this policy apply?

Everywhere work happens! This includes construction job sites, employer-provided housing, travel, rest areas, digital communications, and even commuting.

Contact CWIT’s Equity Resource Center for the complete Gold Standard GBVH Prevention Policy: consulting@cwit.org