The training is based on Canadian legislation that governs workplace bullying
The Alberta government has announced that it is expanding its anti-harassment training to all agencies, boards, and commissions across the province. The training was first mandated to Alberta Public Service (APS) employees, with 60% of them already completing the course.
"We have to ensure that everyone feels safe and respected in their workplace,” said Premier Jason Kenney. “Alberta has made this anti-harassment training mandatory for all public service employees, and it's now being made available to all provincial agencies, boards and commissions.”
The expansion would cover about 26,000 Alberta government staff, who will be trained in phases over two years. All provincial school authorities will be granted access to it, including First Nations education authorities. The training includes a 90-minute course that is delivered the Respect Group Inc, which the government said will provide employees with the knowledge they need to help form a healthy workplace. It is based on Canadian legislation that oversees workplace bullying and harassment protocols.
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According to the provincial government, it also covers "critical topics" recommended in the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s Psychological Health & Safety in the Workplace Standard. Agencies, boards, and commissions may use the same training programme after entering an agreement with Respect Group Inc., but they may also come up with their own in-house training that also focuses on preventing bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
"We're making it crystal clear that harassment of any kind is unacceptable in the public service," said Kenney.
Sheldon Kennedy, Respect Group co-founder, lauded the government for taking the initiative on creating safe spaces at work.
"Psychological safety is important for all employees, perhaps now more than ever," added Kennedy.
“I applaud our government leaders for making this training a priority and giving those who work on our behalf the tools they need to ensure a safe and respectful work environment.”