Some things that happen at work can be difficult or unpleasant, but may not be bullying. For example, if a person makes a complaint about your work or a supervisor holds you accountable for the quality of your work, that is not bullying if it is done in good faith and in keeping with established work policies and laws. Generally speaking, routine personnel actions taken for business reasons, such as a transfer or even a demotion, are not bullying unless other factors are present.
If you feel like you are being bullied by anyone at work, it may be helpful to consider whether that person purposefully does any of the following things on an ongoing basis:.
The list is far from complete. Most bullying involves isolating and putting the victim down, and the way this is done can take many different forms. The effects of these behaviors on the person being bullied can be profound. Physical symptoms resulting from high levels of stress and anxiety can include nausea, headaches, stomach problems, sleeplessness and fatigue, and frequent illness. If you are bullied, you may find yourself depressed and losing motivation, on edge, and having difficulty concentrating.
These are normal reactions to an abnormal situation. And, bullying can be so bad that some people may have suicidal thoughts. Should this still not resolve the matter, you may want to consider taking legal action at an employment tribunal. However, we would recommend that you take legal advice first. Bullying can have a significant impact on your mental and physical health, as well as your confidence and performance at work. Your employer should have an anti-bullying policy and be proactive about cultivating a positive workplace culture.
If you believe you have been the victim of bullying at work, and would like some advice, please contact us today. To speak to a qualified employment solicitor at Springhouse Solicitors, call one of our offices, email us or use our web form …. JavaScript is disabled in your web browser. This site uses JavaScript to make some controls and types of content available. Find out how to enable it. There is equal opportunity legislation in each state and territory which also deals with sexual harassment at work.
Employers have a common law duty to take reasonable care for the health and safety of their employees, as well as additional duties under federal and state or territory work health and safety legislation. Employers should be aware of the obligations and duties set out in relevant work health and safety legislation in each state and territory. This includes the following rule:. Anti-discrimination and harrassment The Rules rely on the definition of bullying and harassment as exists under the applicable state, territory or federal anti-discrimination or human rights legislation.
This biannual training must define abusive conduct, its ramifications, and provide the resources available to employees who are subject to abusive conduct and the grievance process. While there are no laws directly prohibiting workplace bullying or creating a legal cause of action for workplace bullying, employers should be aware that bullying may give rise to actionable harassment claims when the bullying is connected to a protected category.
The effects of workplace bullying include increased absenteeism, increased turnover, low productivity, and decreased morale. To minimize bullying and promote a safer and more respectful work environment, employers should consider:. Please contact Jamala McFadden at jmcfadden theemploymentlawsolution. Request A Consultation.
E-mail: info theemploymentlawsolution. The information contained within this website is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
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