Workplace Violence Prevention
Strong Policies, Safer People
Workplace violence is a serious issue that affects every sector - but workers in health and community services face some of the highest risks of any occupational group. Beyond the immediate physical harm, incidents of workplace violence carry lasting psychological impacts on individuals and ripple effects across entire organizations. Employers have a legal and moral responsibility to create safe, respectful workplaces, and AWARE-NS is here to help you meet that responsibility with confidence.
Our advisors work alongside your organization to build a Workplace Violence Prevention program that is practical, compliant with Nova Scotia’s Violence in the Workplace Regulations, and tailored to your unique environment. From policy development to staff training and risk assessment, we guide you through every step of the process.
Program Overview
Learning Objectives
Through this program, organizations will develop the policies, procedures, and people-skills needed to prevent, respond to, and recover from incidents of workplace violence. Participants will build a clear understanding of their legal obligations, learn how to assess and address risk factors specific to their workplace, and establish a culture of accountability, respect, and psychological safety.
Recommended Participants
Senior Leadership and JOHS Committee Members
Program Resources
Section 1: Program Review and Perception Survey
The first step in building an effective WVP program is understanding where you currently stand. This section guides organizations through a management program review and a staff perception survey – establishing a baseline that informs every step that follows.
Section 2: Leadership and Risk Assessment
Employers are required under Nova Scotia legislation to conduct a workplace violence risk assessment at least every five years, in collaboration with the JOHS Committee. This section provides the framework to identify, evaluate, and document risks – ensuring compliance and building a foundation for meaningful prevention.
Section 3: Policies and Procedures
Clear, well-communicated policies are the backbone of any WVP program. This section supports organizations in developing policies and procedures that address the physical environment, the nature of work activities, and specific conditions such as working alone, isolation, or high-congestion spaces.
Section 4: Reporting, Investigating and Documenting
Nova Scotia’s Violence in the Workplace Regulations outline clear duties to report, investigate, and document incidents of violence. This section equips organizations with the tools to meet those obligations – and to prevent reoccurrence through structured debriefing and follow-up processes.
Section 5: Education and Awareness
A WVP program is only as strong as the people who carry it out. This section outlines a training framework that moves through Prevention and Preparedness, Incident Management, and Lessons Learned – with effective communication as its foundation.
Section 6: Workplace Harassment Prevention
Workplace harassment is addressed under Nova Scotia’s OHS legislation, requiring employers to have written prevention policies and procedures in place. This section supports organizations in meeting those requirements and building a culture of respect and inclusion.
Questions or Comments?
If you'd like to learn more or need guidance on what's right for you or your organization, get in touch with us.
We'd be happy to help.
