Answer to Question 1:

Dear Tim,

Although to date it is not mandatory, it would be recommended and considered best practice that you include a Bullying/Harassment policy in your Safety Statement. Bullying/ Harassment (both sexual & racial) in the workplace constitutes a real threat to the safety, health and welfare of the people at work.
The Expert Group on Workplace Bullying, has recommended that bullying should be included in all safety statements and that every workplace has bullying prevention policies and procedures.

These policies and procedures should

•          Give a clear definition of bullying/harassment

•          Give clear and practical guidelines for both Management and Staff

•          Be made available to all staff

•          Emphasise the seriousness of bullying

•          Stress that management should lead by example

•          Should ensure managers have adequate training to deal with situations

•          Confirm the confidentiality of all processes