In December 2009 the Ontario Legislature passed Bill 168, amending the Occupational Health and Safety Act regarding workplace violence and workplace harassment, including domestic violence, which took effect June 15, 2010. The ORHMA has had numerous meetings with government officials to ensure that the new changes do not place additional liabilities or regulatory burden on employers. The new Act does provide new rights and protections for workers, and requires every employer to:
- prepare policies with respect to workplace violence and workplace harassment,
- develop and maintain programs to implement their policies, and
- provide information and instruction to workers on the contents of these policies and programs.