The Loi sur les normes du travail (Law on Labour Standards) was recently subject to an important review. Among the modifications made to the Law, each Quebec employer was expected to have developed a policy to prevent psychological or sexual harassment in the workplace by January 1, 2019. Each Quebec employer must now have a policy in place to prevent psychological and sexual harassment and should be able to address and process related charges or complaints. This policy must be shared with all staff. In order for employers to meet this requirement, the CNESST (Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail) has made available a policy sample that can be used by employers, once a minimum of information has been added. This policy sample can also be adapted to the company size and to the presence of a board or union. For this purpose, guidance is also available on the CNESST website. Please be reminded that since June 1, 2004, employers have the obligation to take reasonable actions to prevent any form of harassment within their organization. If such a situation is brought to the employer’s attention, appropriate actions must be taken to stop the situation.
To learn more about these provisions related to psychological or sexual harassment and the recent modifications made to the law, please consult the following website, respectdesnormes.com or contact the CNESST at 1 844 838-0808.