Definition Of Workplace Bullying Nz
This is a quick guide with advice for workers about what bullying at work can look like and what they can do if they think they are being bullied or are accused of being a bully.
Definition of workplace bullying nz. This is the first time the term bullying has been defined in new zealand and the definition will provide future direction for employers employees and indeed courts on this issue. Bullying free nz awards 2019. Bullying free nz week 2019. As published in newlaw issue 01.
Most widely accepted definitions of bullying are based on four elements. Employers have legal obligations to make sure that their workers are healthy and safe at work. Examples of workplace bullying cases in new zealand by the findlaw team over the years cases involving alleged bullying at work have come before the employment court and employment relations authority. Bullying free new zealand week.
Worksafe nz s guidelines include a definition of bullying. New zealand government te kawanatanga o aotearoa search govt nz. Preventing and responding to workplace bullying guidelines employment law specialist bridget smith outlines what the guidelines spell for employees and employers confronted with workplace bullying. Bullying free nz awards 2018.
Bullying is a form of aggressive or threatening behaviour either at school in the workplace or in the wider community. With the release of worksafe new zealand s best practice guidelines. Bullying free nz week 2018. Under the health and safety at work act 2015 hswa businesses are expected to manage health and safety risks arising from their work as far as is reasonably practicable.
Employers need to remember that verbal attacks which harass or hurt an employee can be just as significant as physical threats or attacks. Part of the reasoning behind the policy is to protect employees from bullying in the workplace. Studies suggest that between one in five and one in three new zealand workers report bullying or harassment annually. Creating a workplace culture where all people are respected and putting in place appropriate policies may reduce employer liability if an inappropriate behaviour happens.
Bullying is deliberate harmful involves a power imbalance. It is the sort of thing that we should only hear about with children in the. Bullying and harassment is a serious and common work risk.