A formal complaint is of course something that no organization is happy about. No organization enjoys having to deal with a complaint, but that doesnt mean you can just ignore it when it occors. A formal procedure only makes sense if every effort has been made to prevent escalation. If that is the case, an employee can file a complaint. When this happens, for example in the case of unwanted behavior, it is important that this is taken seriously. A complaint is part of a formal procedure and is handled by a complaints committee. Moitshepi can provide support in this process on several levels.
Yes, the employer is responsible, even if the inappropriate behavior is between colleagues. Article 3 of the Working Conditions Act indicates that if the transgressive behavior takes place in a work-related setting, the employer is responsible. Even if there is no clearly identifiable cause or causes of the inappropriate behavior, the employer is still responsible. The employer will therefore have to appoint a complaints committee to investigate the complaint.