Harassment and violence in the workplace – civilian employees

As a DND public service employee, you have the right to be treated fairly, respectfully, and with dignity. This also means that you can expect a workplace free of harassment and violence. Learn about your rights and responsibilities by consulting the following on-line resources:

• Workplace harassment and violence prevention program
• DAOD 5014-0, Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention
• Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Policy Manual
• Labour Relations information is available only on the Defence Team Intranet. If you are unable to access the Intranet, contact your supervisor or our office for assistance.
• Human rights and discrimination directives are found in DAOD 5516-0, DAOD 5014-0 and DAOD 5012-0.
• Alternative dispute resolution involves several potential resolution processes. Conflict and Complaint Management Services (CCMS) offices located across Canada offer support in your pursuit of a resolution option that is early, local, and informal.
• The Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Centre of Expertise (WHVP CoE) provides guidance to employees, supervisors and managers. Call 1-833-451-1604 or send an e-mail to DesignatedRecipientHVP-DestinataireDesignedelaPHV@forces.gc.ca.

Document any measures you take to resolve the matter.

The supervisor, manager, or designated recipients must keep the principal party and the responding party (if involved) informed during the process. For information about the workplace harassment and violence prevention reporting and resolution process, review the DAOD 5014-0, Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention and the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Policy Manual.

Request updates in writing, and keep a copy of your correspondence. If you are unable to get an update from your supervisor, manager, or designated recipient within 30 days, send a follow-up message with a copy of your original request. If you still do not get a response, contact our office for information and assistance.

For guidance on the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention (WHVP) Regulations, contact the WHVP Centre of Expertise by calling 1‑833‑451‑1604 or sending an e-mail to DesignatedRecipientHVP-DestinataireDesignedelaPHV@forces.gc.ca

Depending on the circumstances, DND employees and CAF members may seek additional forms of recourse outside the DAOD 5014-0, Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention. This can include submitting a redress of grievance.

If you are a represented employee, contact your union representative for information and assistance. In addition, review your collective agreement for information on submitting a redress of grievance.

If you believe your employer has not fulfilled duties as defined in the Canada Labour Code or the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Regulations, notify your supervisor, manager, or the designated recipient about the issue in order to attempt to resolve the matter. If a resolution is not possible, submit your complaint to the Labour Program. The purpose of this program is to ensure that workplace parties meet the regulatory requirements of the resolution process.

Contact our office if compelling reasons prevent you from addressing your concerns through regular channels. These compelling reasons could include time sensitivity, health, security, or financial concerns for you or your family. Where compelling reasons exist, our office can ensure the appropriate parties are aware of your circumstances.

Refer to DAOD 5014-0, Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention and the Workplace Harassment and Violence Prevention Policy Manual. These resources will help you understand how to proceed once you learn about an occurrence of workplace harassment or violence. They will also inform you about how to ensure a fair and timely handling of the matter.

As a manager, it is also important to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees. It is a good practice to share mental health resources with those who are affected by the situation. 

Current and former CAF members and civilian DND employees who have experienced workplace sexual harassment, sexual misconduct or any other form of discrimination based on sex or gender can choose to bring their complaint directly to the Canadian Human Rights Commission. Find out more at Filing a complaint with the Canadian Human Rights Commission.