Office Bullying and Harassment Policy Volume Nov 2013 | Page 34

Cyber-bullying
In today’s world, electronic communication has created a new forum for bullying and harassing
behaviour. Known as cyber-bullying, it can occur through email, text messaging, social networking,
and websites.
It can include sending derogatory or threatening messages to the target, or sharing personal and
confidential messages or images.
When cyber-bullying occurs, employers, workers, and supervisors must follow their bullying and
harassment procedures.
The following suggestions can help workplaces address cyber-bullying:
•

establish a clear electronic communications policy for the workplace — the same principles and
standards that apply for day-to-day work should also apply to activities conducted online or via
electronic devices

•

if cyber-bullying is an issue, consider blocking access to social networking sites from work
computers

•

encourage staff to give careful consideration to the personal information they post
online, especially on social media sites

Effects on workers and the organization
Bullying and harassment is an occupational health and safety issue. There’s growing evidence to
suggest exposure to workplace bullying and harassment has serious negative outcomes for the
target — and for the workplace, co-workers, and clients.

Effects on the target
People respond differently to bullying and harassment. Reactions may include one or any combination
of the following:
•

impaired concentration or ability to make decisions, which could lead to safety hazards, such
as a lack of attention when working with dangerous equipment

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Toward a respectful workplace