Every worker, no matter your position or employment status, has the right to an inclusive and safe work environment.
This includes the right not to be bullied, harassed or discriminated against at work.
Here we explain what to do if you are being bullied at work and workplace bullying compensation.
Examples of bullying and harassment in the workplace:
Workplace bullying is described as repeated behaviour which can be intentional or unintentional. Some examples include:
- Language which is offensive, abusive or threatening;
- Excluding someone deliberately;
- Setting unrealistic timeframes to complete tasks;
- Providing unjustified feedback or complaints;
- Spreading false information; and/or
- Unreasonable management decisions, for example;
- expecting someone to complete work outside of the person’s expertise
- not providing the relevant tools for a worker to complete relevant tasks
- deliberately changing time frames to disadvantage the worker.
What are my employer’s responsibilities?
Your employer has an obligation to provide all staff with a safe work environment to ensure injuries or illness are prevented.
What to do if you are being bullied at work
- If you are experiencing workplace bullying, seek support and refer to your workplace’s policies to try and resolve the behaviours.
- Report workplace bullying verbally and in writing to a manager, human resources officer.
- Speak to your doctor. In order to make a workplace bullying compensation claim your doctor will need to provide a medical certificate to support the psychological and/or physical injury.
- Seek legal advice. An expert Workers Compensation lawyer will be able provide advice on your specific circumstances and on the best way forward.
What is a workplace bullying compensation claim?
If you are experiencing psychological or physical symptoms from workplace bullying, you may be able to lodge a workplace bullying compensation claim.
Some of these symptoms may include:
- distress or anxiety
- depression
- disturbed sleep
- loss of appetite or digestive issues
- relationship problems
A successful workplace bullying compensation claim can help you to access paid medical treatment and wages whilst trying to recover from your injury.
Workplace bullying compensation claims can be lodged with WorkCover Queensland or a self-insurer dependent upon who your employer is.
If your injury arises from your employer’s negligence you may also be entitled to sue your employer.
How Sciaccas Lawyers can help
Sciaccas Lawyers are experienced with all aspects of workers compensation claims and can help you or your loved one seek the compensation you deserve.
The legislation surrounding workplace bullying compensation claims can be difficult to navigate when your health has been impacted. That’s where we come in.
We’ll be with you through each step of your claim, from helping you to gather the evidence required to submit a claim, through to securing the best possible outcome.
Get in touch today over the phone or online to discuss your next step.