UK Builders Face 'Respectful Behaviour' Training Under Labour's New Workers' Rights Laws
New guidance from the Equality and Human Rights Commission outlines obligations for employers to prevent harassment, impacting construction sites with a history of 'crude banter'.
Builders in the UK will be required to undergo 'respectful behaviour' training as part of Labour's new workers' rights laws aimed at curbing a perceived 'culture of crude banter' on construction sites. The guidance, published by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), details the legal obligations for employers in preventing workplace harassment.
The EHRC guidance provides an example of a large construction firm operating in a male-dominated environment with a "culture of crude banter," warning that such companies face a "high risk of sexual harassment." To comply with the new legislation, the fictional firm would need to implement significant changes, including issuing formal communications to clients and contractors about its updated stance on tackling sexual harassment. Furthermore, all staff would be mandated to participate in training focused on inclusion, respectful behaviour, and the reporting of any sexual harassment.
The new regulations, stemming from Angela Rayner's Employment Rights Act 2025, broaden employer liability. Businesses are now required to take "all reasonable steps" – an increase from the previous standard of "reasonable steps" – to prevent sexual and other forms of harassment against their employees. This change extends to ensuring protections from harassment by customers in sectors such as hospitality and retail.
Equities minister Bridget Phillipson stated that the government is collaborating with businesses to combat misogyny. However, the new rules have drawn criticism. Tory business spokesman Julia Lopez argued that Labour's "banter ban" is already imposing additional red tape and training requirements on businesses, creating a "climate where employers are left walking on eggshells" over potentially innocent comments made by staff.
The guidance came into effect on October 30, 2026, with the EHRC publishing its updated guidelines for employers. The legislation aims to foster a more inclusive and safer working environment across various industries.