Which statement correctly reflects an employer obligation regarding violence or harassment in the workplace?

Which statement correctly reflects an employer obligation regarding violence or harassment in the workplace?

• A. Allow violence if it is not directed at management
• B. Do nothing about harassment
• C. Ensure workers are not subjected to violence or harassment
• D. Permit harassment to test staff resilience

Answer: (C)

The main concept here is that employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace by preventing violence and harassment. The best statement captures that duty: the organization must ensure workers are not subjected to violence or harassment. In practice, this means putting in place a clear zero-tolerance policy, channels for reporting incidents, and a process for promptly investigating and addressing any events or bullying. It also involves training staff to recognize unacceptable behavior, supporting those affected, and taking corrective action against perpetrators. This approach aligns with health and safety principles that aim to identify and control hazards—including psychosocial ones like violence and harassment—and to create a work environment where employees can perform without fear or harm. Statements that suggest allowing violence, doing nothing, or testing resilience by permitting harassment would violate these responsibilities and safety laws.

The main concept here is that employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace by preventing violence and harassment. The best statement captures that duty: the organization must ensure workers are not subjected to violence or harassment. In practice, this means putting in place a clear zero-tolerance policy, channels for reporting incidents, and a process for promptly investigating and addressing any events or bullying. It also involves training staff to recognize unacceptable behavior, supporting those affected, and taking corrective action against perpetrators. This approach aligns with health and safety principles that aim to identify and control hazards—including psychosocial ones like violence and harassment—and to create a work environment where employees can perform without fear or harm. Statements that suggest allowing violence, doing nothing, or testing resilience by permitting harassment would violate these responsibilities and safety laws.