Adding a PoSH Clause to Appointment Letters: Is There a Standard Format?

Hi, Is there any specific format to add a clause of PoSH in the appointment letter to be issued to new employees?

Dear Colleague,

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 is a law, and it applies to all employees and workplaces.

Even if you have no clause in the appointment order, it will bind all employees and workplaces. If you want to add a specific clause in the appointment order, you may mention:

"You are bound by all laws of the land and are to abide by workplace conduct, code of conduct, HR Policy Manual, Employee Handbook, SOPs, and regulations published then and there, amended as and when they occur, state and central laws/acts like PoSH without fail. Any breach will lead to appropriate actions, including termination of employment if proven against you."

You may include detailed PoSH procedures and rules in the Code of Conduct, Employee Handbook, or HR Policy Manual.

Inclusion of PoSH Act in Company Policies

It is mandatory to add the PoSH Act of 2013 in the Certified Standing Orders of the Company; hence, no separate clause is required to be mentioned in the appointment letter.

During the induction programme, it may be explained to the new entrants.