Definitions and Procedures

Bullying

Bullying is repeated, offensive, abusive, intimidating, insulting or unreasonable behaviour directed towards an individual or a group, which makes the recipient(s) feel threatened, humiliated or vulnerable. Note single incidents of bullying will not be tolerated.

Bullying can occur in the workplace and outside of the workplace at events connected to the workplace, such as social functions or business trips.

Bullying can be a form of harassment and can cause an individual to suffer negative
physical and mental effects.

Bullying can take the form of physical, verbal and non-verbal conduct. As with
harassment, there are many examples of bullying, which can include:

– abusive, insulting or offensive language or comments
– unjustified criticism or complaints
– physical or emotional threats
– deliberate exclusion from workplace activities
– the spreading of misinformation or malicious rumours and
– the denial of access to information, supervision or resources such that it has a
detrimental impact on the individual or group.

These examples are not exhaustive and disciplinary action at the appropriate level will be taken against employees committing any form of bullying.