Problems in the workplace

Improper treatment or harassment must be addressed immediately. You can also try to prevent it by establishing common ground rules and making sure that everyone is aware of them. Employees are represented by an occupational safety and health representative or shop steward and also supported by a trade union, in the game industry it is Game Makers of Finland.

What is harassment?

Harassment is any activity that can endanger or harm an employee's health. It is also a persistent negative action or behavior. The employer is obliged to intervene as soon as it is informed. It is a good idea to write down what has happened and how the issue may have been resolved for later handling of the harassment situation.

Examples of harassment

  • repeated threats or intimidation

  • nasty and insinuating messages

  • disparaging and mocking speech

  • continued unjustified criticism and obstruction of work

  • questioning reputation or position

  • isolation from the work community

  • sexual harassment

Who can you report harassment to?

First, it is worthwhile to find out if there is an operating model for harassment situations in the workplace. If not, then harassment should be brought up as soon as possible with the misbehaved person and tell them that their behavior is inappropriate and should be stopped. If the situation continues or it is impossible to have a discussion with the disturber, the matter must be reported to the immediate supervisor, occupational safety and health representative, shop steward or occupational health care representative. In addition, you can contact the union directly to review the situation and create a more specific tactic to deal with the situation.

Schools, meetings or other similar situations often have their own harassment contact persons who can be notified of situations.

You can also report harassment to the employer using the official form HERE.

Who can report harassment?

A victim of inappropriate treatment, harassment or harassment may file a report, but the witness of the situation or otherwise observing the situation is also obliged to intervene. When a so-called third party is acting, it would be a good idea to try to discuss the matter with both parties, but if it proves challenging, the third party may notify the employer or employee representative.

What happens after a harassment report has been filed?

When an employer receives a notice of harassment, it must initiate measures without delay. Anyone who has experienced harassment will be informed of what actions to take and on what schedule the investigation of the situation will begin. In addition, the employer must objectively determine the course of harassment or events from all parties. When an employer intervenes in harassment, the goal is to put an end to the disruptive behaviour and its implementation is also monitored. In serious situations, factors outside the organization can be included in the solution of the situation.

If the employer does not act in accordance with their obligations, you can contact the union or the occupational safety and health authority.

Other problematic situations

Problematic situations other than harassment or inappropriate treatment may occur in the workplace. In resolving these issues, staff representatives or the union can also advise and support.

Situations may include:
 

  • Psychosocial load

    Factors related to the social functioning of the work community and the organisation and content of work, as well as the workload of work.

  • Equality

    All are equal and no one shall be discriminated against on grounds of age, origin, nationality, language, religion, belief, opinion, political activity, trade union activity, family relations, health, disability, sexual orientation or any other personal reason.

  • Working environment

    The working space must be safe and healthy, including lighting, temperature, working equipment and cleanliness.