Auditor General Tabled Audit Report on the Prevention of Workplace Violence and Harassment at the City of Ottawa

Ottawa – Today, Auditor General Nathalie Gougeon tabled the Audit of the Prevention of Workplace Violence and Harassment.

The Audit found that while a Workplace Violence and Harassment Policy is in place, the City lacks an associated comprehensive corporate strategy. Furthermore, focus on prevention of workplace violence and harassment has been limited, and there is a need for more attention from senior leadership as a collective body on this topic.

The audit further identified that the current resourcing levels and model used to support the program may not be adequate and that training for employees should be improved and tailored to their operational contexts to ensure they are adequately equipped to fulfill their responsibilities.

The Auditor General explains her rationale for the selection of this audit and sited the recent rise in reported allegations of violence and harassment in the workplace across North America over recent years as a leading factor in her decision making, further emphasizing the importance of an adequate prevention program.

“The importance of prevention goes to the core of the health and safety of all employees. Furthermore, it is paramount to ensuring the reputation of an organization”, explained Mme Gougeon. 

The audit identified areas for improvement for the City to focus on as it continues to evolve its Workplace Violence and Harassment program and to deal with an increasing volume, and complexity of complaints. 

There are 9 recommendations and management agreed with all of them.

Full copy of the report is available on the Auditor General’s website at: www.oagottawa.ca

For more information:
613 580- 9602
OAG@ottawa.ca