Defence Team: Complete your Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention training
October 10, 2025 - Defence Stories
Estimated read time – 2:00
As part of the Defence Team’s ongoing commitment to fostering a respectful, safe, and inclusive workplace, this is a reminder that all Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and Department of National Defence (DND) public service employees are required to complete the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention (WHVP) training.
Why this training matters
As units conduct their annual mandatory training reviews or welcome new DND public service employees and CAF members, it is essential that WHVP training is prioritized and completed in a timely manner. Training is mandatory under DAOD 5014-0 and the WHVP policy manual
Training overview
WHVP training helps Defence Team members:
- Recognize and prevent harassment and violence in the workplace.
- Understand their rights and responsibilities under DAOD 5014-0.
- Learn how to report occurrences.
- Contribute to a respectful and inclusive work environment.
Mandatory training is available through the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS):
- WMT 101: required for all Defence Team members regardless of rank or role
- WMT 102: which must be completed by those in a Chain of Command or managerial position.
Leadership responsibilities: Chain of Command (CoC) and managers
CoC and managers play a pivotal role in upholding the WHVP program and fostering a culture of respect and accountability. They are responsible for ensuring that all Defence Team members under their supervision complete the mandatory training.
CoC and managers are expected to actively participate in WHVP assessments. These assessments are conducted in collaboration with the applicable Workplace Health and Safety Committees (WHSC), Health and Safety Representatives (HSR), or CAF Safety Committees (CAFSC), and must be reviewed every three years. Updates to preventive measures should be made, as needed, to reflect changes in the work environment.
When a Notice of Occurrence (NoO) is received, CoC/managers must notify the WHVP Centre of Expertise (CoE) within seven calendar days, provide Response to a Notice of Occurrence-Principal Party, and maintain monthly updates throughout the resolution process. They are also responsible for resolving occurrences reported to them in accordance with the WHVP Policy Manual.
Leadership is expected to lead by example by familiarizing themselves with the WHVP Policy Manual, facilitating open conversations on civility, bias, and inclusion, and proactively identifying and addressing early signs of workplace conflict. They are encouraged to use the Chain of Command and manager toolkit to preventing workplace harassment and violence to support their efforts in preventing workplace harassment and violence.
Support and resources
The WHVP CoE is available to provide support and guidance to CoC and managers. Additional support services are also available.