Do You Have A Workplace Harassment Policy And Program? – It's A Requirement

We take this opportunity to remind you that every employer in British Columbia is required to develop, implement and maintain both a workplace harassment policy and workplace harassment program. This obligation stems from section 115 of the Workers Compensation Act, which requires that employers ensure the health and safety of its workers and any other workers present at the workplace, and provide the information, instruction, training and/or supervision necessary to ensure work is performed safely.

WorkSafeBC has published Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) policies that expand upon the requirement. Details regarding the anti-bullying and harassment requirements can be found in OHS policy D3-115-2. The requirements include: 1) taking steps to prevent or minimize bullying and harassment, 2) developing and implementing reporting procedures, 3) developing and implementing procedures for dealing with incidents and complaints and 4) annually reviewing the policy