According to Statistics Canada, more than four in 10 women who have ever been in an intimate partner relationship have experienced violence at the hands of their partner.

Although also commonly referred to as domestic violence, intimate partner violence doesn’t just happen behind closed doors, and it isn’t limited to people who live together – it can happen outside of the home, including in the workplace.

Employers have a responsibility to keep workers safe while at work. Following a number of workplace tragedies in Ontario, concerted lobbying efforts led to the Occupational Health and Safety Act being amended to include specific provisions to address domestic violence:

32.0.4 Domestic violence – If an employer becomes aware, or ought reasonably to be aware, that domestic violence that would likely expose a worker to physical injury may occur in the workplace, the employer shall take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of the worker.

Under this provision, precautions include:

• protection for the potential victim and others
• potential safety plan development
• possible involvement of police and other agencies

The Ministry of Labour’s Workplace Violence in School Boards: A Guide to the Law contains further clarification and a sample general safety plan.