Forthcoming Introduction Of Mandatory Policies On Workplace Bullying Harrasment In BC

15 Oct 2013

Canada introduced Workers Compensation Act’s section 5.1(1)(a)(ii) on 1st July, 2012. According to this section, a mental disorder of a worker caused by a work-related stressor, including harassment or bullying is compensable under the Act.

WorkSafeBC is introducing policies that necessitate employers to address and prevent workplace harassment and bullying on 1st November, 2013.

What steps must employers take to ensure compliance?

According to the policies, employers need to do the following to ensure the workers’ well-being and safety and prevent harassment and bullying:

• Prevent or minimize workplace bullying and harassment;

• Develop a policy statement on bullying and harassment not being acceptable or tolerated;

• Develop and implement procedures for workers to report incidents and complaints of bullying and harassment;

• Inform and train workers and supervisors;

• Develop and implement procedures for dealing with incidents and complaints, including investigations, follow-up, and record-keeping; and

• Conduct annual reviews of policy statement and reporting procedures.

Employers must review existing practices and policies to determine whether they satisfy the new policies’ requirements.