This lesson introduces the immediate post-incident response framework for harassment cases. It explains the priority of confidentiality, survivor safety, and a transparent timeline for engaging HR, EAP, and other stakeholders while upholding non-retaliation principles.
Immediate Post-Incident Response: Confidentiality, Safety & Timelines
This lesson introduces the immediate post-incident response framework for harassment cases. It explains the priority of confidentiality, survivor safety, and a transparent timeline for engaging HR, EAP, and other stakeholders while upholding non-retaliation principles.
Overview
This lesson outlines the immediate actions taken after a harassment incident is reported. It emphasizes protecting confidentiality, ensuring survivor safety, and initiating rapid support while preserving the integrity of evidence and compliance with non-retaliation goals.
Core principles include confidentiality, voluntary disclosure, safety-first planning, and timely engagement with appropriate stakeholders. The aim is to reduce risk, minimize re-traumatization, and establish a clear path for follow-up support and investigation.
Core Steps
- Activate the incident response protocol with access restricted to essential personnel only.
- Confirm survivor safety and assess immediate risk in the workplace.
- Provide information about available supports, including counseling and time off.
- Collect essential facts from the survivor and relevant witnesses without pressuring disclosure.
- Document initial details, preserve evidence, and establish a timeline for next steps.
Timelines and Roles
- Within 2 hours: notify designated HR contact and EAP liaison with survivor consent.
- Within 24-48 hours: initial intake meeting and safety planning completed.
- Within 5-7 business days: initial investigation plan drafted and shared with relevant parties.