POSH Act Practice Exam

The POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Act, 2013, is a legal framework in India aimed at preventing, prohibiting, and addressing sexual harassment of women at the workplace. The law mandates the establishment of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) within organizations to handle complaints of sexual harassment, ensuring a safe and secure working environment for women. The act defines what constitutes sexual harassment, outlines the procedures for filing complaints, and specifies the penalties for non-compliance. Its goal is to create a respectful and non-discriminatory workplace for women, free from harassment and intimidation.

Certification in POSH Act refers to a formal credential that demonstrates a professional’s understanding and compliance with the guidelines and provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act, 2013. The certification process typically includes training in the legal aspects of the act, its application in the workplace, and the steps involved in creating a safe and harassment-free environment. By obtaining this certification, individuals can show their expertise in managing sexual harassment complaints, forming internal committees, conducting sensitization programs, and ensuring adherence to the legal requirements of POSH in organizations.
Why is POSH Act certification important?

• Helps ensure compliance with the legal requirements of the POSH Act in organizations.
• Enhances the ability to handle complaints of sexual harassment in a professional manner.
• Promotes the creation of a safe and inclusive workplace environment.
• Provides knowledge on setting up and managing an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
• Equips professionals with the skills to conduct awareness and sensitization programs.
• Increases the credibility and competence of HR and compliance professionals.
• Ensures that organizations can prevent, address, and resolve incidents of sexual harassment.
• Enhances career prospects in HR, legal, and compliance departments.
• Demonstrates commitment to creating gender-neutral and harassment-free workplaces.

Who should take the POSH Act Exam?

• HR Manager
• Compliance Officer
• Legal Counsel/Advisor
• Gender Equality Officer
• Workplace Safety Officer
• Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) Members
• Employee Relations Manager
• Organizational Development Consultant
• Training and Development Manager
• Diversity and Inclusion Specialist

Skills Evaluated

Candidates taking the certification exam on the POSH Act is evaluated for the following skills:

• Understanding of the POSH Act’s provisions and legal framework.
• Knowledge of the role and responsibilities of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
• Ability to investigate complaints of sexual harassment and take corrective actions.
• Understanding of sensitization and awareness programs related to sexual harassment.
• Familiarity with best practices for creating a harassment-free workplace.
• Ability to handle complaints confidentially and with impartiality.
• Knowledge of penalties and legal consequences for non-compliance with the POSH Act.
• Skills in conflict resolution and mediation in harassment-related issues.
• Understanding of the importance of organizational culture in preventing harassment.

POSH Act Certification Course Outline
The course outline for POSH Act certification is as below -

Domain 1. Overview of the POSH Act, 2013

• Definition of sexual harassment

• Applicability of the POSH Act

• Objectives and significance of the act

• Key provisions and amendments

Domain 2. Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

• Formation and composition of the ICC

• Roles and responsibilities of the ICC

• Procedural steps for handling complaints

• Maintaining confidentiality in the investigation process

Domain 3. Complaint Handling Process

• Filing a complaint under the POSH Act

• Investigation process and timelines

• Rights of the complainant and the accused

• Role of the ICC in providing solutions

Domain 4. Awareness and Sensitization

• Importance of training and awareness programs

• Designing and implementing sensitization programs

• Role of leadership in fostering a safe work environment

Domain 5. Legal Provisions and Penalties

• Legal framework of the POSH Act

• Consequences of non-compliance for organizations and individuals

• Legal remedies available to victims of harassment

Domain 6. Gender Sensitivity and Respectful Workplace

• Building a gender-neutral workplace

• Promoting respect and inclusivity

• Recognizing and addressing unconscious biases