Code of Conduct and Anti-Harassment Policy

1- OUR COMMITMENT

The Sanisera Archaeology Institute is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment for every participant, staff member and collaborator in all its field schools, laboratories, accommodation, excursions and online activities.

We do not tolerate harassment, discrimination, bullying or abuse of any kind, whether based on sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age, disability, physical appearance or any other personal characteristic.

2- SCOPE

This policy applies to students, directors, instructors, staff, visiting specialists and any other person taking part in our programmes, at all times during the course: on site, in the laboratory, in shared accommodation, during meals, excursions and free time, and in online communication related to the course.

3- UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOUR

The following behaviours are not accepted:

• Sexual harassment, including unwelcome sexual comments, advances, requests or physical contact, and any sexual conduct without clear consent.
• Sexual assault or any form of physical violence or threat.
• Verbal, written or online harassment, intimidation, humiliation or bullying.
• Discriminatory remarks, jokes or treatment.
• Taking or sharing photographs or videos of a person without their consent in private situations.
• Abuse of authority, including any conduct by staff that exploits their position over students.
• Retaliation against anyone who reports a concern or takes part in an investigation.

Romantic or sexual relationships between staff and students taking part in the same course are not permitted.

4- HOW TO REPORT

Anyone who experiences or witnesses unacceptable behaviour can report it, verbally or in writing, to:

• The course director or any member of staff on site, or
• The Institute's Director, Fernando Contreras Rodrigo, at info@archaeology.institute or +34 608 894 650 (also WhatsApp).

If the concern involves the course director, it may be reported directly to the Institute's Director. Reports can be made at any time during or after the course. In an emergency, call the Spanish emergency number 112.

5- HOW WE RESPOND

• Every report is taken seriously, handled promptly and kept confidential as far as possible.
• The person making the report will be listened to and supported, and their safety and well-being come first. Practical measures, such as changes of work group or accommodation, will be taken where needed.
• The facts will be reviewed impartially, giving all parties the opportunity to be heard.
• Depending on the seriousness of the case, measures may include a warning, removal from the course without refund, or termination of a staff member's collaboration. Where conduct may be a criminal offence, the person affected will be supported in contacting the Spanish authorities.
• No one will suffer negative consequences for making a report in good faith.

6- SAFETY IN THE FIELD

All participants receive a safety briefing at the start of the course covering site work, tools, heat, sea and travel, as well as the contact details of staff and local emergency services. No participant is required to take part in any activity they consider unsafe.

7- ACCEPTANCE

By enrolling in a Sanisera field school, participants and staff agree to follow this Code of Conduct. This policy is reviewed annually.

Fernando Contreras Rodrigo
Director, Sanisera Archaeology Institute for International Field Schools
Last updated: October 2026