1. Policy Overview

1.1 Purpose

Smith's Electrical Services (the Company) is committed to providing a safe, healthy and respectful working environment for all workers, contractors and visitors. The purpose of this policy is to:

• Prevent workplace bullying.
• Define what behaviour is unacceptable.
• Outline the process for reporting and resolving complaints.
• Ensure compliance with the Fair Work Act 2009 and the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW).

1.2 Scope

This policy applies to:

• All employees, including casual and full-time staff.
• Contractors and sub-contractors.
• Apprentices and trainees.
• Volunteers.
• Management and directors.

2. Definition of Workplace Bullying

2.1 What is Bullying?

Workplace bullying occurs when an individual or group repeatedly behaves unreasonably towards a worker. The behaviour creates a risk to health and safety. It does not include reasonable management action.

2.2 Examples of Bullying

Bullying may include but is not limited to:

• Abusive, insulting or offensive language or comments.
• Unjustified criticism or complaints.
• Deliberately excluding someone from work-related activities.
• Withholding information that is vital for effective work performance.
• Setting unreasonable timelines or impossible tasks.
• Spreading misinformation or malicious rumours.
• Changing rostered hours to deliberately inconvenience a worker.
• Physical violence or threats of violence.

3. Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Management

Management must:

• Model appropriate behaviour.
• Treat complaints seriously and confidentially.
• Act promptly on complaints.
• Ensure all workers are aware of this policy.

4. Reporting Procedure

4.1 Informal Resolution

If you feel comfortable, you can try to resolve the issue directly. You can speak to the other person or ask a manager to help mediate.

4.2 Formal Complaint

If the behaviour continues or is serious, you must make a formal complaint. You can lodge a complaint with the Site Manager.

5. Investigation Framework

5.1 Assessment

The Site Manager will assess the complaint within 3 working days. They will decide if it is bullying or a management issue.

5.2 Appointing an Investigator

The Company will appoint an impartial investigator. If the complaint involves a manager, an external investigator will be used.