2024-09-08 11:36:34
SBB employees report sexual harassment
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Assaults are said to be common in the driver’s cab at SBB. According to an internal survey, around 800 women are affected. A confidentiality clause makes it difficult to report incidents.
According to a survey, around 800 SBB employees are said to have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace in the last two years.
Symbolfoto: Anthony Anex (Keystone)
Female train drivers of the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) report lewd comments and inappropriate advances from their male colleagues, according to a survey conducted at the end of 2023. In one case, for example, a train manager is said to have commented on the appearance of a female train driver on the phone with the words “Ah, now I see your tight ass.” Esther Weber, head of the women’s specialist group in the locomotive staff association and herself a train driver, speaks in the «Sunday View» of a “regulars’ table culture” in the train driver’s room, where men tried to outdo each other with misogynistic remarks. “Women who defend themselves against harassment are often ridiculed,” says Weber.
In the break room, “techniques” are discussed on how to best touch women in the driver’s cab. Trainee train drivers are touched on the breasts when they are shown how the brakes work. Since the instructor is standing on the right and the brake is on the left, the breasts can be “accidentally” touched.
The SBB is withholding exact figures
The SBB’s internal survey shows that four percent of employees – around 1,400 people – have experienced discrimination in the workplace in the past two years. Women are particularly affected: twelve percent of female employees are said to have stated that they had been sexually harassed – extrapolated, this amounts to around 800 women. The SBB management has so far withheld the exact figures, which has met with criticism internally.
The SBB emphasizes that they take the problem seriously and consistently follow up on cases of sexual harassment. Human resources manager Markus Jordi refers to a zero-tolerance policy and measures such as awareness programs that are to be implemented soon. Nevertheless, the women affected criticize the way the incidents are handled. A confidentiality clause that they have to sign when reporting an incident prevents them from speaking openly about what happened.
High number of unreported cases
Although the SBB is considered a progressive company on paper – with initiatives such as a women’s network and a “Queernet” for employees from the LGBTQ community – there is a lack of concrete steps to translate the survey results into effective measures. Weber calls for greater visibility that sexual harassment in the workplace is not tolerated.
According to SBB, the results of the survey are in line with the Swiss average. Nevertheless, the high number of unreported cases is a problem. In 2023, only 36 cases were officially reported, although according to Jordi the actual number is significantly higher. Employees often fear negative consequences if they defend themselves against harassment – a situation that must be addressed urgently.
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What actions is SBB taking to address the reported incidents of sexual harassment among its employees?
SBB Employees Report Sexual Harassment: A Growing Concern in the Workplace
Sexual harassment is a pervasive issue that affects many industries, and the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) is no exception. A recent survey conducted at the end of 2023 has revealed that around 800 female train drivers have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace over the last two years. The survey’s findings are disturbing and highlight the need for immediate action to
