On Wednesday, February 24, 2016, we stand together to say no to bullying. The Workers Compensation Board approved three Occupational Health and Safety policies under sections 115, 116, and 117 of the Workers Compensation Act. These policies deal with workplace bullying and harassment. The policies define bullying and harassment, and explain the duties of employers, workers, and supervisors to prevent and address workplace bullying and harassment. These policies came into effect on November 1, 2013.
Bullying is defined as any inappropriate conduct or comment by a person towards a worker that the person knew or reasonably ought to have known would cause that worker to be humiliated or intimidated. It excludes any reasonable action taken by an employer or supervisor relating to the management and direction of workers or the place of employment. Inappropriate conduct can include, but is not limited to:

• Verbal aggression or yelling
• Humiliation, insults or hazing
• Intentional isolation or spreading malicious rumors
• Withholding necessary information to carry out your job

The employer is responsible for ensuring policies, procedures and education are in place at the worksite for all workers. The BCGEU offers 2 or 4 hour anti-bullying courses for our members and their respective employers. Many worksites have utilized our training in order to inform and train workers, supervisors and employers to recognize and appropriately respond to bullying and harassment. Please contact the OHS department for more information on education: [email protected]

If you feel you are being bullied and harassed, your concerns might be more effectively addressed through the grievance process by contacting your steward or staff representative.

Click here to get your worksite involved in Pink Shirt Day, February 24.

UNIFOR467/MoveUP