More Information on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Sexual harassment is a problem for anyone, whether it’s at work or elsewhere. Women, people in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, Indigenous people, and people of colour are especially at risk.

Sexual harassment involves physical and verbal actions that are sexual and disrespectful. It can happen in many places and in different ways.

Sexual harassment can include:

• Making unwanted comments about someone’s body or sexuality.
• Touching someone without permission.
• Asking for sexual acts or making sexual proposals.
• Telling rude jokes or using disrespectful words about gender.
• Asking for dates or sexual favours.
• Showing sexual pictures, like porn, that others can see.
• Talking sexually and disrespectfully, or “locker room talk.”
• Asking about someone’s gender identity or private body parts.
• Giving unwanted sexual looks or gestures.
• Sending unwanted sexual pictures or messages.
• Using language or behaviour that is sexist or targets someone’s gender or sexuality.

These are just a few examples of harassing behaviour. Sexual harassment includes any sexual actions done without permission that upset or offend others.

The behaviour doesn’t have to be aimed at one person to be considered harassment. For example, if you hear a coworker making sexist jokes or see sexual images on their computer, you can speak up. You might not be the only one who feels uncomfortable. It’s important to expect a workplace that is safe and free from sexual harassment.

Some examples of being sexually harassed include:

• Persistently ask someone about dates when they’ve explicitly said no.
• ‘Accidentally’ brushing up or touching a person
• Exposing themselves 
• Making insults about someone's gender identity or sexual orientation. 
• Making comments or jokes about a person's body or sex
• Touching themselves in a suggestive manner in view of yourself or others
• Sending unwanted suggestive or inappropriate messages, emails, or other communications. 
• Posting inappropriate images - including posters or screensavers. 
• Making sexually offensive gestures, remarks or facial expressions.
• Staring or suggestively looking at a person 
• Physically blocking a person’s movements (like standing in their way)
• And more.

It’s important to understand that if you feel like you are being sexually harassed, you should speak up. If ever you are unsure, still speak up. 

If you need additional support, we are here to help. Legal Info NS provides up to 4 hours of free legal advice for those dealing with sexual harassment in the workplace. This includes if you need help processing what has happened. For more information, go to legalinfo.org/safeatwork or email it at [email protected]. 

Below is a playlist with examples of sexual harassment in the public and information for witnesses and bystanders. 

We are still here to help if you are unsure. Our Safe at Work program can connect you with a lawyer or a legal information navigator to help you determine whether you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. If unsure, you can ask our team by emailing [email protected] or by calling 1-902-407-3600.

Click here for supportive organizations and services that may be available to you. 

The Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia (LISNS) has created a video series to help Nova Scotians understand their rights when it comes to workplace sexual harassment and sexual violence. These videos explain key legal protections, including human rights laws, workplace responsibilities, and available support services. The series is designed to provide clear, accessible legal information for workers, employers, and community members across the province.

View the whole playlist and individual videos below. 

How are Human Rights Protected in Canada

Legal Supports are Available for Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence Survivors