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 and harassment. In addition, most provinces, including Alberta, have specific regulations regarding violence and harassment in the workplace. Alberta considers violence and harassment to be workplace hazards. Both domestic violence and sexual violence are included under this legislation.
In Alberta, the Occupational Health and Safety Act defines the law regarding the duties of employers and workers and sets standards to ensure health & safety in the workplace. The Occupational Health and Safety Code is a set of rules that employers and workers must comply with to ensure workplace safety. Here we find the requirements regarding violence & harassment in the workplace, as well as requirements when working alone. The Code also addresses domestic violence in the workplace. When an employer is aware that a worker is or is likely to be exposed to domestic violence at a work site, the employer must take reasonable precautions to protect the worker and any other persons at the work site likely to be affected.
Most Canadian workplaces hold a zero tolerance attitude towards violence & harassment with a commitment to create a safe & healthy environment for workers.
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 Alberta legislation, 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 the Knowledge Assessment, and are allowed 2 attempts. A certificate of completion (and/or wallet card) may be printed at successful completion of the Prevention of Violence and Harassment in the Workplace Knowledge Assessment.