Bill 168 Ontario: Written violence and harassment in the workplace policy

Does your business employ more than 5 employees?  If so, are you ready for Bill 168 and the plan to ensure compliance by June 15th, 2010.

Bill 168 requires organizations to be committed to ensuring that all employees are protected in their right to work in an environment free from all forms of harassment and workplace violence. With these amendments, the Occupational Health & Safety Act will require employers to protect workers from harassment and violence in the workplace whether perpetrated by employees, clients, or others (for example, vendors, visitors, and contractors).

Mandatory elements of the Workplace Violence Prevention program include the following:

1. Development and implementation of a workplace violence policy, to be posted at a conspicuous place in the workplace.

2. Initiatives to assess and identify the risks of workplace violence particular to the organization.

3. Development and implementation of measures and procedures to control or minimize the risks identified in the risk assessment process.

4. Development of procedures for workers to report incidents of workplace violence or threats of workplace violence.

6. Development and communication of procedures for the investigation and addressing of incidents of violence or threats of violence.

7. An obligation to provide a copy of the results of the risk assessment to the Joint Health and Safety committee.

8. A training obligation with respect to the employer’s violence prevention program as deemed necessary but at least annually.

Developing and posting a policy is not the end of the process. There are other requirements set out by Bill 168. Ontario Ministry of Labour inspectors may visit your business to ensure compliance and ensure your employees know your workplace’s stance on violence and harassment.

Your local Express Employment Professionals office has great tools and resources that may help you be prepared and complying.  Contact Paul Bertrand at (905) 421-9555, if you have more questions concerning this new legislation.

Paul Bertrand

Owner
Express Employment Professionals