Coast Guard Policy on Harassment

The Coast Guard has strict guidelines on harassment prevention.

Harassment, as defined by the Coast Guard, is hostile action against someone based on a personal characteristic. These actions can be either spoken, nonverbal, or physical in nature. The Coast Guard has outlined procedures to prevent harassment from occurring.

Purpose

The Coast Guard harassment policy states that its intent is to prevent workplace discrimination and provide equal opportunity in relation to grants, contracts and in employment. The policy is subject to all workers who are active duty, civilians, or those who serve in the reserves. The policy also serves to outline processes for investigating and resolving harassment issues.

Types

Within the policy, the Coast Guard prohibits sexual harassment. It also prohibits harassment on the basis of: race, sexual orientation, religion, age or disability. There is also protection for workers who turn in another for illegal conduct or activities from retaliation.

Prevention

Preventive measures such as sexual harassment prevention training are used to teach workers about this topic and how to report it. Workers also receive training regarding equal employment and other types of harassment. Incidents are reported up the chain of command, and these reports are kept under strict confidentiality. Harassment claims are investigated by the Coast Guard Investigative Service.

References

• United States Coast Guard: Coast Guard Civil Rights Manual