Office Bullying and Harassment Policy Volumn 2013 | Page 13

Issues not addressed in this handbook
Bullying and harassment can take place anywhere and at any time, and anyone can be a target. Given
its wide scope, it’s important to mention that this handbook and the other materials WorkSafeBC has
prepared address bullying and harassment in the workplace. This handbook does not address bullying
and harassment that is unrelated to a worker’s employment.

What’s not covered?
In extreme cases, workplace bullying and harassment could lead to the development of mental
disorders. This handbook is not intended to provide information about claims or compensation related
to mental disorders. These matters are addressed under section 5.1 of the Workers Compensation
Act. Further information about claims for mental disorders can also be found at worksafebc.com.
Bullying and harassment in the workplace may involve a spectrum of behaviours. Conduct that is
considered bullying and harassment under the Workers Compensation Act, which is an OHS matter,
may also be conduct that could be addressed in other ways, for example, if the conduct is considered a
criminal offence under the Criminal Code of Canada or discrimination under the BC Human Rights
Code. This handbook does not provide advice about the implications and remedies available under
these other statutes. The advice and information in this handbook is only intended to inform workplace
parties about bullying and harassment that is considered an OHS matter.
For safety questions about workplace bullying and harassment, contact the WorkSafeBC prevention
information line (toll-free in Canada) at 1.888.621.SAFE (7233).

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Toward a respectful workplace