There is no place for violence or harassment in the workplace. Regardless of where you live in Canada, most provinces have occupational health & safety legislation with “general duty” requirements for your employer to protect your health & safety in the workplace, and this includes protecting you from workplace violence. In addition, Nova Scotia, recognizes violence as an occupational health and safety hazard and has enforced specific regulations regarding violence in the workplace.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act defines the law regarding the responsibilities of employers and employees to ensure health & safety in the workplace. Compliance of each workplace party to perform their specific responsibilities supports an "internal responsibility system" and is required to maintain a safe work environment.
The Violence in the Workplace Regulations, under the Occupational Health & Safety Act, set out what Nova Scotia workplaces must do in order to provide a workplace free from violence.
While there are no specific regulations under the Occupational Health & Safety Act regarding harassment in the workplace, the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act does provide protection against harassment on several prohibited grounds of discrimination. Additionally, the Act specifically states that "no person shall sexually harass an individual". The Human Rights Commission suggests that workplaces create a policy statement emphasizing a zero tolerance attitude towards harassing behavior in the workplace. All workplace parties in Nova Scotia share a responsibility for creating and maintaining a work environment free from violence and harassment.
Training raises awareness about violence and harassment in the workplace. Workplace violence can be prevented or averted if employees are aware of the warning signs that may lead to violence. By being educated about workplace policies and knowing what to do in event of violence or harassment, you can help prevent harm to workers. By knowing what behavior is acceptable and what is not, employees can do their part in preventing violence and harassment and help maintain a respectful workplace.
This course deals with general information such as the law, how to recognize warning signs, and respond to violence and harassment in the workplace. In addition, employers must provide training that addresses the contents of their specific workplace violence and harassment policies & programs.
Prevention of Violence and Harassment in the Workplace may be taken in the comfort of your own home or on the workplace computer system. There are 2 units and depending on your pace, it takes approximately 45 min to complete. You may progress through the online course at your own pace and may stop & start at any time. You are required to achieve a grade of 75% or higher in order to pass, and are allowed 2 attempts at the test. A certificate of completion (and/or wallet card) may be printed at successful completion of the Prevention of Violence and Harassment in the Workplace test.