Workplace Policies

This chapter outlines policies and procedures that can support the governance and operational structure of your organization. The first section highlights two (2) policies that are required within your workplace – a bullying and harassment policy and a privacy policy – while subsequent sections provide suggestions of policies that you may want to consider for your workplace.

Whether you have an independent contractor or an employee, your MSA or Physician Society will be required to have these two policies. These two policies should include reference to any independent contractors and/or workers that your organization engages with.

If you have additional questions or concerns, please consult your Engagement Partner.

MANDATORY WORKPLACE POLICIES

BULLYING & HARASSMENT POLICY

Must:

  • As per WorkSafeBC, employers must implement a bullying and harassment policy (sometimes known as a respectful workplace policy) that is applicable to all employees, contractors, board members, volunteers, etc.
  • Workplaces are required to ensure all employees are aware of the organization’s bullying and harassment policy.
  • Workplaces are required to review their bullying and harassment policy on a yearly basis.
  • Here is an example of a bullying and harassment policy (also known as a respectful workplace policy)
  • Additional resources can be found on the WorkSafe BC website here

Best Practice:

  • This policy may include sections on:
    • Definitions
    • Roles and responsibilities of the employer and employees
    • Conditions that are applicable to the policy, such as protection of complainants; confidentiality; complaints against the senior leader or Executive Director; etc.
    • Procedures that are applicable to the policy, such as distribution of the policy and the complaint resolution process.

PRIVACY POLICY

Must:

  • The employer must implement a privacy policy that is applicable to all employees, contractors, board members, volunteers, etc.
  • This policy may cover the collection, use and disclosure of personal information; the protection of personal information; accessing personal information; and retaining personal information.

Best Practice:

  • This policy may include sections on:
    • Definitions
    • Roles and responsibilities of the employer and employees
    • Conditions that are applicable to the policy, such as the collection, use and disclosure of personal information; the accuracy and protection of personal information; accessing and updating personal information; the retention and destruction of personal information; the employer’s right to access its own technology systems (e.g., internet use, email); potential data breaches; etc.