i) The Government of Ontario recently passed a bill that will amend six pieces of legislation with respect to sexual violence and harassment. Most importantly for employers, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (the “Act”) will be amended to include an expanded definition of workplace harassment that includes workplace sexual harassment. Further, inspectors under the Act will be able to order an employer to conduct a third-party workplace investigation. The changes will come into effect in September 2016.
ii) As of March 1, the requirements with respect to Joint Health and Safety Committees (“JHSCs”) under the Occupational Health and Safety Act in Ontario have changed. Individuals seeking to become certified JHSC members will be required to go through the JHSC Certification Training Program Standard. Members that were previously certified will not have to complete the training; however, all new certified members will be required to complete the training.