Violence and Harassment in the Workplace - Legislation

All jurisdictions specify elements required in harassment and violence prevention policies and programs. While there are variations between jurisdictions, there are many common elements such as:

• Defining violence and harassment. Some definitions include bullying formally
• Conducting a workplace assessment (a hazard identification and risk assessment) specific to harassment or violence
• Developing and implement preventative measures
• Developing a policy and program, implement the program, and corresponding procedures for reporting of an incident
• Developing a reporting and resolution process, including how to report an incident or occurrence
• Providing employee instruction, education, or training
• Determining procedures to ensure confidentiality and privacy
• Listing supports that are available (internally, externally)
• Requiring record keeping
• Using continual review and improvement processes to update the policy and programs
• Reporting to the jurisdiction, as necessary
• Including additional requirements for situations such as family (domestic) violence, or working late night hours in retail, gas stations, convenience stores, etc.
  

NOTE: In this document, we use the term violence to also include bullying and harassment

Please refer to the following OSH Answers documents for information:

• Bullying in the Workplace
• Internet Harassment or Cyberbullying
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Family (Domestic) Violence
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Legislation
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Dealing with Negative Interactions
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Parking Lot Safety
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Warning Signs
• Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Working Late

The following OSH Answer documents on Working Alone also offer more information:

• Working Alone – General
• Working Alone – Handling Money
• Working Alone – Off-site
• Working Alone – Working With Patients

Below is a table for guidance purposes that lists legislation and a general summary of elements of a harassment or violence prevention policy and program.

NOTE that other requirements may be listed in other sections, regulations, Codes, or Acts that are not listed in this table. For more details, consult the legislation directly.

Always consult the legislation that applies in your situation, and with your jurisdiction for complete information.