Module IV: Workplace Violence Prevention

Important Notice !

Bill C-65, an Act to amend the Canada Labour Code and protect employees from harassment and violence in federal workplaces, came into force on January 1, 2021.

The content on this page may not reflect the most up to date information during the transition to the new regulatory framework.

For the latest information, employees and managers are encouraged to contact the Harassment and Violence Centre of Expertise (HVCE).

The Workplace Violence Prevention Program is a key component of the Departmental Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Program. This module focuses on the Department’s commitment to preventing workplace violence and resolving incidents of workplace violence when they occur.

Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) is committed to preventing workplace violence in all its workplaces, where workplace violence is not acceptable and will not be tolerated. This commitment includes taking reasonable actions to prevent workplace violence by:

  1. Providing a safe, healthy and violence-free workplace;
  2. Dedicating attention, resources and time to address factors that contribute to workplace violence and to prevent and protect against them;
  3. Communicating to its employees information in its possession about factors contributing to workplace violence; and
  4. Assisting employees who have been exposed to workplace violence.

In order to achieve this, the Department developed a Workplace Violence Prevention Policy. The policy, along with the Treasury Board Policy on Government Security and the Policy on Prevention and Resolution of Harassment in the Workplace reflects the Department’s coordinated efforts to prevent workplace violence.

Workplace Violence Prevention Training

Workplace Violence Prevention Tools

Tools for Managers and Supervisors

Tools for Committees and Representatives