WorkCover NSW launches program to stamp out workplace bullying

WorkCover NSW data indicates there have been 2400 workers compensation claims made for workplace bullying, costing more than $60 million over the past two years. During this period, WorkCover has investigated 1165 complaints relating to workplace bullying.

The New South Wales Minister for Finance, Michael Daley, said the nine-month campaign will target the retail, hospitality, manufacturing, health and education sectors. It will consist of workplace advisory and compliance visits, public workshops and partnerships with industry bodies.

“Everyone has the right to work in a safe workplace, free from intimidation and unreasonable behaviour,” Daley said. “Bullying is unreasonable behaviour that creates a risk of physical or psychological harm that usually is repeated over time, however can result from a single incident.

“It can have a negative impact on the psychological health of workers, their family and colleagues as well as a negative impact on an employer’s bottom line.”

WorkCover inspectors and advisory officers will assess the systems that employers have in place to address bullying and provide educational resources to help businesses understand their work health and safety obligations.

During the site visits, workers will also be approached to ensure they are aware of their rights and obligations in relation to bullying and respectful behaviour.

In the second half of 2010, WorkCover will hold more than 50 free public workshops across the state that will provide practical information on how to identify and address workplace bullying.

“I would encourage employers and workers to attend one of these workshops so they can be adequately equipped to prevent workplace bullying,” Daley added.

A suite of guidance material including the WorkCover guide ‘Preventing and Responding to Bullying at Work’, sample policies and risk assessment tools can be downloaded from www.workcover.nsw.gov.au.