Released on September 4, 2007
The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed legislation expanding the definition of harassment under The Occupational Health and Safety Act, 1993 effective October 1, 2007.
The new definition of harassment includes expanded language to address personal harassment in the workplace, such as abuse of power and bullying. The legislation also allows for the appointment of an independent adjudicator to hear appeals arising from harassment complaints.
"Healthy and safe work environments, free of harassment benefit us all," Labour Minister David Forbes said. "Educating workplaces on the new definition of harassment will be a priority for Saskatchewan Labour as we move forward with fully implementing the legislation."
Implementation will begin with the establishment of a new harassment prevention unit within the Occupational Health and Safety Division of Saskatchewan Labour. The new unit, which is to be fully operational by the spring of 2008, will focus on enforcing the anti-harassment legislation and educating workplaces on the new definition and complaint process. During the initial implementation period the focus will be on education.
The special adjudicator position will function independently of Saskatchewan Labour.
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For more information, contact:
Shannon Dumba
Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3021
Email: sdumba@lab.gov.sk.ca