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Developing Workplace Violence and Harassment Policies and Programs: A Toolbox
Overview and Context for Action
Policy, Program, and Training Review Tool
Yes No Examples of Content Existing Recommended
Do you have a
workplace emergency
response plan that
includes measures and
procedures for calling for
immediate help?
If you have internal
procedures for work
refusals, have you
updated them to include
workplace violence?
• identify consequences if workers become violent
(the consequences could include disciplinary
action, up to and including termination of
employment)
• respect confidentiality, while ensuring the safety of
all workers
• outline counselling supports or resources that are
available to assist workers (critical incident stress
debriefing, Employee Assistance Program (EAP),
and other support)
• specify other actions, such as reviewing program
measures and procedures or reviewing the
assessment of risks
• outline record-keeping requirements
Consider integrating these measures and procedures
into an existing emergency response plan, or create
a comprehensive emergency response plan for the
workplace.
An emergency response plan could include:
• emergency response protocols, teams, and training
• information on the location and use of emergency
facilities and safe areas
• alarm and emergency communication requirements
• procedures for rescue, lockdown, and evacuation
• information on when and how to contact the police
• information about designated emergency workers,
contact persons, crisis management plans,
evacuation plans, and building plans
Consider integrating your workplaceʼs measures and
procedures with your buildingʼs, or join with
neighbouring businesses to coordinate emergency
response.
If you have existing procedures, update them.
Consider developing a workplace-specific work
refusal procedure that includes workplace violence.
Remember that internal procedures must conform to
the work refusal process in the Occupational Health
and Safety Act.
Other measures and procedures associated with workplace violence prevention
Note: These are recommended measures and procedures that may not be specifically required by the OHSA
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