This article will examine criminal harassment in the workplace.
Harassment in the workplace is a growing concern in Toronto and throughout Canada. It involves any unwanted or offensive behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating work environment, and can include physical, verbal, or psychological abuse. Harassment can take many forms, including bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment.
Under Canadian law, every employee has the right to a safe and healthy work environment, free from harassment and discrimination. The Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code protect workers from harassment based on specific grounds, including race, national or ethnic origin, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and other personal characteristics.
In order to be considered workplace harassment, the behavior must be persistent and unwanted, and it must interfere with the employee’s ability to perform their job effectively. The harasser can be a coworker, a supervisor, or even a client or customer.
It is important for workers who are experiencing harassment in the workplace to understand their rights and to take action to address the behavior. The first step is to report the harassment to the appropriate person, such as a supervisor or human resources representative. This can be done through a formal complaint process, or informally by speaking with the harasser directly.
Employers also have a legal obligation to address workplace harassment, and to take steps to prevent it from happening. This includes providing training to employees on what constitutes harassment, and having a clear process in place for reporting and investigating complaints. Employers may also be required to implement measures to protect workers who have experienced harassment, such as providing a safe work environment, and offering support and counseling services.
In some cases, workers may also have the option of filing a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission, or taking legal action against their employer for failing to provide a safe work environment. This can involve a human rights complaint, a complaint under occupational health and safety legislation, or a civil lawsuit.
It is also important to be aware of the support and resources that are available for workers who have experienced harassment in the workplace. This may include counseling services, employee assistance programs, and advocacy groups.
In conclusion, harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can have a significant impact on workers and on the health and well-being of organizations. By understanding their rights and taking action to address the behavior, workers can help to create safe and healthy work environments, and to promote respect and equality in the workplace.
If you or someone you know has been charged with Assault, contact De Boyrie Law today for a free consultation at this link. If your matter is immediate please contact us at (416) 727-1389. De Boyrie Law serves Toronto, Vaughan, and the Greater Toronto Area.
Stacey is a student at De Boyrie Law. She is currently studying to complete the BAR and is expected to join our firm once she has completed studies.