08-12 Workplace Harassment

Question 1

What is the commitment of the Toronto Police Services Board and the Toronto Police Service regarding workplace conditions?

Answer 1

To provide a workplace that is free of discrimination and harassment

This commitment is outlined in their standards of conduct.

Question 2

What legislation mandates that workers have a workplace free of harassment?

Answer 2

The Occupational Health & Safety Act (OHSA)

OHSA sets the framework for workplace safety and health standards.

Question 3

What does section 1.9 of the Standards of Conduct prohibit?

Answer 3

Discriminatory behaviour

This is part of the Toronto Police Service’s commitment to fairness.

Question 4

What constitutes workplace harassment according to the provided text?

Answer 4

Workplace sexual harassment and the process for reporting workplace harassment

It includes a range of inappropriate behaviors.

Question 5

What protection is offered to members reporting workplace harassment?

Answer 5

Protection from reprisal

Members are safeguarded against retaliation for reporting incidents.

Question 6

What are the mandatory notifications for incidents of workplace harassment?

Answer 6

Supervisory Officer, Officer in Charge, and Unit Commander must be notified

This ensures proper handling of harassment incidents.

Question 7

What is the Service’s commitment regarding police services?

Answer 7

To deliver services that are fair, respectful, and unbiased

This aligns with the provisions of the OHSA.

Question 8

How is workplace harassment defined under the OHSA?

Answer 8

It is broader than the definition contained in the Ontario Human Rights Code

This highlights the comprehensive nature of OHSA’s protections.

Question 9

What rights do members have regarding reprisal?

Answer 9

Members shall not harass, intimidate, retaliate, or threaten against anyone making a report

This emphasizes the importance of a safe reporting environment.

Question 10

What must members maintain about workplace harassment complaints?

Answer 10

Confidentiality

This includes refraining from discussing or releasing information.

Question 11

What actions should a supervisor take upon becoming aware of workplace harassment?

Answer 11

Maintain confidentiality, report to the Officer in Charge, commence an investigation

Supervisors have specific responsibilities to ensure proper procedures are followed.

Question 12

What constitutes workplace harassment?

Answer 12

Engaging in vexatious comment or conduct that is unwelcome

This can be a one-time incident or repeated incidents.

Question 13

What does workplace sexual harassment include?

Answer 13

Vexatious comment or conduct against a worker because of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression

It involves unwelcome advances or solicitations.

Question 14

Fill in the blank: A police officer cannot refuse to work when the refusal would directly endanger the _______.

Answer 14

life, health or safety of another person

This underscores the duty of officers to maintain public safety.

Question 15

What is the definition of a ‘worker’ according to the text?

Answer 15

Any person who performs work or supplies services for monetary compensation, including contractors or volunteers

This broad definition encompasses various roles within the service.

Question 16

True or False: Workplace harassment includes discipline or performance management.

Answer 16

False

Such actions are not classified as workplace harassment.

Question 17

What should happen if the source of workplace harassment is external to the Service?

Answer 17

Applicable eReports must be completed prior to the completion of the tour of duty

This ensures proper documentation and follow-up.