Strategies for a healthy workplace environment: Proactive measures against bullying

Law360 Canada (February 26, 2024, 10:58 AM EST) --

Michelle Ann Zoleta

Building an environment that cultivates productivity and uplifts employee morale is attributed to promoting a workplace that prioritizes health and well-being. Employers have the responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of staff, which includes taking proactive steps to address bullying and harassment.

As Pink Shirt Day (Wed. Feb. 28) approaches, an annual event against bullying, there’s no better time to address this critical issue head-on and promote a culture of respect and inclusivity in the workplace.

A recent study suggests that nearly two-thirds of respondents (65 per cent) reported encountering harassment or violence in the workplace within the last two years. Even more concerning, a staggering 71.4 per cent of respondents experienced some form of harassment, violence or sexual harassment and violence in the same period. These statistics highlight the need for employers to take proactive measures in preventing workplace bullying.

In paving the way for a safer and more inclusive workplace, providing training sessions for both employees and management to recognize and prevent bullying is an important first step. Managers, in particular, should receive training on how to effectively respond and address complaints.

It's crucial to respond to complaints promptly and take corrective action in a timely manner. Demonstrating a commitment to addressing concerns promptly sends a strong message that bullying will not be tolerated.

Central to the effort in combatting workplace bullying is to create a clear and well-defined workplace violence and harassment policy and program. It’s crucial to ensure all employees are not only aware of the policy and program but also understand the consequences of engaging in bullying.

To protect the well-being of staff who have experienced bullying, employers should consider providing access to counselling services. It's important for employers to help make employees feel heard, supported, and valued.

Ultimately, it’s the responsibility of employers to actively protect their staff and eliminate all forms of bullying and harassment, creating an environment of safety and inclusivity for all staff.

It’s crucial to recognize that addressing bullying goes beyond fulfilling legal obligations, it’s essential for promoting the overall success and well-being of the business.

Michelle Ann Zoleta is health and safety advice manager at Peninsula Canada.

The opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the author’s firm, its clients, Law360 Canada, LexisNexis Canada, or any of its or their respective affiliates. This article is for general information purposes and is not intended to be and should not be taken as legal advice.  

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