In some cases, people may engage in off color remarks and joking that they do not find offensive. This behavior may be offensive to others who are not directly involved in the conversation. This type of harassment is called third party harassment, and is considered a form of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment can occur outside the work site and still be work related. Incidents that occur at retirement parties and office socials, in training or on TDY are some of the situations where work related sexual harassment can occur.
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination.
Simply having a policy that prohibits sexual harassment does not protect an employer. The employer must take positive steps to prevent harassment and take swift action when harassment occurs. Sexual harassment is not exclusively males harassing females. Either gender may be the harasser or the victim. The key is unwelcome behavior that is sexual in nature.