On September 8th, 2016, Ontario’s recently introduced Bill 132 will come into effect. Bill 132 is an act to amend various statutes with respect to sexual violence, sexual harassment, domestic violence and related matters and comes with many required changes to Ontario workplaces.
What will change under Bill 132?
- Bill 132 will add onto the definition of workplace harassment under the Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act, to specifically include workplace sexual harassment as a workplace safety issue.
- It will mean that employers are required to take action in addressing harassment through clear mechanisms, procedures, investigations and reporting. As well as training obligations for staff.
What do employers have to do by September 8, 2016
- Develop processes & procedures to investigate complaints and report results – Employers will have to investigate complains in a “manner appropriate in the circumstances” meaning HR and staff will have to be trained to follow procedures put in place for investigations and providing written reports.
- Employers will have to review and update their existing policy on workplace violence and harassment to make sure the new definition of workplace sexual harassment is specifically addressed.
- Take complaints seriously – Bill 132 gives the Ministry of Labour the ability to order employers to use a third party to investigate workplace harassment at the employers expense.
- Make sure there are correct & clearly defined mechanisms in place for making a complaint – Employees will have to have the ability to report the allegation to someone other than their supervisor or manager in the event he/she is involved in the complaint.
- Create a plan to train all employees and managers on workplace violence and harassment
FAST Rescue are happy to be able to provide on-site, off-site or online training options for your staff to ensure these new workplace requirements are followed.
Our training is ministry of labour approved and exceeds all Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act training requirements.
If you, or your workplace require any training to follow all Bill 132 obligations, feel free to contact us for a free no obligation consultation on your requirements.
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About F.A.S.T. Rescue
F.A.S.T. Rescue are health and safety experts offering consulting, supplies and training solutions that help make employees safe in the workplace. We’re passionate about health and safety, offering unrivaled value and solutions with a satisfaction guarantee. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.