New workplace harassment rules take effect Thursday

New legislation meant to create more a harmonious and safe work environment for you takes effect Thursday.

Bill 132 is part of an 18-month effort by the provincial government to stamp out the sexual violence and harassment that the Premier described in March 2015 as "shockingly prevalent".

Under the workplace new rules:

• Employers must lay out who would lead an investigation if a complainant's alleged harasser is their supervisor or owner of the company
• Employers must explain how confidentiality will be maintained during an investigation of a claim
• Employers must investigate claims of harassment and each probe should be "appropriate in the circumstances"
• Employers must provide to the complainant and alleged harasser a written version of the findings of their investigation and go-forward steps
• Sexual harassment has been formally added to the definition of workplace harassment
• Employers must review their workplace harassment policy at least once a year
• The Ministry of Labour can force an employer to hire a third party to investigate a harassment claim

Away from work, another measure meant to help victims of abuse or violence get to safety takes effect today. Survivors can now break a lease with 28 days’ notice rather than the standard 60-days provided they have supporting documentation, like a peace bond, restraining order or signed statement explaining the abuse.