New Guidelines to Prevent Third-Party Violence and Harassment at Work
Today, the European Multi-sectoral Social Partners published new guidelines to prevent and tackle third-party violence and harassment (TPVH) related to work – a major step forward for promoting health and safety in the workplace.
Why it matters: Creating safe and respectful work environments protects employees, supports quality management, and enhances the overall service experience, especially in sectors like hospitality.
The objectives of the guidelines include:
• Implementing clear, results-oriented workplace policies on TPVH
• Making tools useful, accessible, and user-friendly
• Improving risk awareness across sectors
• Developing both preventive and responsive measures
Key measures for effective TPVH policies:
• Strong social dialogue and stakeholder involvement
• Clear definitions, objectives, and real-life examples of TPVH
• Integrating TPVH into existing occupational health and safety risk assessments (a legal EU requirement)
• Accessible, training and awareness-raising initiatives
HOTREC Director General Marie Audren commented: “These guidelines will serve as a valuable tool for hospitality businesses to ensure safe workplaces. This will keep employees protected; will help attract talent; will support employers within their managerial tasks; and will ultimately enhance the quality of service delivered to guests.”
EFFAT General Secretary Enrico Somaglia added: "As hospitality workers are exposed to third-party violence—especially young women in the sector—we welcome these guidelines, which represent a joint commitment by employers and trade unions to address third-party violence in the workplace, notably through collective bargaining. The multi-sectoral approach of these guidelines enhances their impact, and they are also innovative in tackling emerging challenges, such as violence linked to digitalisation.”
Social partners call on the swift implementation of the guidelines at national level and encourage members to share their practices – because sharing is caring.
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