Australia's "anti-dobbing" culture can obstruct efforts to eradicate workplace bullying and create a "huge problem" for employers, says general counsel for Harmers Workplace Lawyers, Greg Robertson.
It is the way managers deal with employee complaints - rather than the subject of the complaints - that can trigger workers to launch legal claims, according to Hicksons workplace relations practice manager, Brad Swebeck.
A recent court case and fines totalling $330,000 show that employers with knowledge of inappropriate behaviour at work "have to do something about it", says Sparke Helmore special counsel, Adam Saunders.
A psychologist has called for organisations to protect managers against workplace harassment after a study revealed that nearly a quarter of Australian bosses are the targets of "upwards" bullying.
Proper investigation of workplace incidents and complaints can help protect employers against legal claims by employees, but many HR managers lack the skills to conduct them. Here, an employment lawyer and former police investigator explains how they're done.
A rigorously applied anti-bullying strategy adhering to the "five pillars" of the risk management process is vital in eliminating workplace harassment and protecting employers from stress-related legal action, according to a HopgoodGanim Lawyers report.
Employers must be more vigilant than ever in developing and reinforcing anti-bullying policies in light of a significant spike in workplace bullying and harassment claims - many of them false, says Harmers Workplace Lawyers managing partner, Joydeep Hor.
Employers can minimise the development and aggravation of workplace mental illness and dramatically reduce their exposure to litigation by putting in place an employee assistance program and developing a clear anti-bullying policy, according to workplace lawyer Greg Robertson.
Employers forced to cut staff levels must ensure that remaining workers are equipped with the skills to deal with abusive customers, or risk exposure to litigation from distressed employees, a workplace lawyer warns.
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