UK employers warned of new third-party harassment liability

New regulations introduced by the Employment Rights Act 2025 will come into force on October 30, requiring employers to take ‘all reasonable steps’ to prevent employees from being harassed by third parties. This includes harassment from customers, clients, contractors, or members of the public.

Failure to comply may result in employment tribunals and legal action by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. The new laws supersede the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013, restoring protections that were previously removed. Experts from the accountancy firm Azets warn that simply having a written policy is insufficient; employers must demonstrate practical, proactive measures to protect their workforce from behavior that violates dignity or creates a hostile environment.