Ontaricare Health Services (OHS) places a high priority on cultivating a safe, productive, and healthy work environment. This commitment is reflected in our Workplace Anti-violence, Harassment, and Sexual Harassment Policy, aligned with Bills 168 and 132 in Ontario.
Definitions:
- Workplace Violence: Any physical force causing or potentially causing injury, including threats, disruptive behavior, or inappropriate actions.
- Domestic Violence: Harm or threats from a person with a personal relationship to a worker, extending to the workplace.
- Personal Harassment: Unwelcome behavior with a connotation of a personal attribute, such as age, race, nationality, disability, etc.
- Sexual Harassment: Unwanted sexual advances, reprisals, offensive remarks, or suggestive behavior.
- Racial/Ethnic Harassment: Conduct or comments causing humiliation based on racial or ethnic background.
- Workplace Harassment: Vexatious comment or conduct against a worker, including workplace sexual harassment.
- Workplace Sexual Harassment: Vexatious comment or conduct based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
Guidelines:
Ontaricare Health Services (OHS) strictly prohibits all forms of violence, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, and misconduct within the workplace. The following guidelines are established to ensure a secure and respectful working environment:
- Weapons Prohibition: Possession of weapons on the premises is strictly forbidden to maintain a safe workplace.
- False Complaints: Making false complaints or providing false information related to violence, harassment, or sexual harassment is a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action.
Application:
This policy applies universally to all individuals associated with OHS, including employees, contractors, and management. It underscores OHS’s commitment to fair and equitable treatment in all aspects of employment.
Violence Risk Assessment:
OHS conducts regular risk assessments to identify potential sources of violence. Measures are then implemented to control and communicate these risks to the Joint Health and Safety Committee or Safety Representative.
Reporting:
Employees are strongly encouraged to report any incidents of violence promptly to their immediate management or Human Resources. It is important to note that making false complaints violates the policy and may lead to disciplinary action.
Investigating Reports:
OHS is committed to promptly investigating all reported acts of violence, harassment, or sexual harassment. This process involves consulting with relevant parties, documenting findings, and taking corrective actions. Confidentiality is maintained throughout, and any form of reprisal is strictly prohibited.
Discrimination and Harassment:
Employees have the right to report instances of discrimination or harassment through both informal and formal channels. OHS ensures thorough investigations are conducted, respecting the privacy of all parties involved, and communicates the findings to the complainant and respondent.
Disciplinary Measures:
Any form of violent behavior, harassment, or unacceptable conduct is subject to disciplinary action. The severity of the disciplinary measures, including counseling, warnings, or dismissal, is determined based on the seriousness of the violation.
Record Keeping:
OHS maintains comprehensive records of all complaints, investigations, and corrective actions related to workplace harassment. This documentation is critical for ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
Confidentiality:
OHS prioritizes the confidentiality of all parties involved in any reported incidents. The identities and circumstances of complainants and respondents are protected, unless disclosure is necessary for investigation or disciplinary action.
Managing and Coaching:
It is important to note that counseling, performance appraisal, work assignments, and disciplinary actions by managers or supervisors, when conducted within the bounds of professional standards, are not considered harassment under this policy.
Policy Review:
OHS conducts an annual review of this policy to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. The policy is prominently displayed in the workplace to reaffirm OHS’s commitment to fostering a safe and respectful work environment.