Bullying a WHS Risk?

Myths about workplace bullying.


HC online have an interesting thread regarding Workplace bullying.


It seems that there are certain workplace hazards/risks that people feel are unable to be addressed utilising the WHS Act.

They tend to fall under "people behaviour". Maybe it's because low "industrial risk" workplaces don't see a place for the WHS Act or that because it's people related and not machine, plant or heavy physical work it doesn't apply.

Under the WHS Act Sect 19 (3) (c) a person
conducting a business or undertaking must ensure,
so far as is reasonably practicable:
(a) the provision and maintenance of a work
environment without risks to health and
safety; and
....(c) the provision and maintenance of safe
systems of work;

If the systems of work are not preventing bullying then they need reassessment. Utilise the risk management process to keep it objective. The "Health" part of Work Health and Safety relates to a persons well being at work. If work is the factor or a contributing factor to a person being bullied then assess it and manage it.
It's not always easy dealing with the human side of WHS but when done well it can the more satisfying aspects.

Like help with utilising WHS to manage bullying? Send an email and we will be happy to assist.