Sask. employers must inform new hires if potential for workplace violence exists [Video]

Saskatchewan employers will be required to tell new hires if they face a risk of violence in the workplace and to take actions against it starting on May 17.

Under the employment act amendments taking effect later this month, workplaces must have a violence policy and prevention plan in place that identifies where violent situations have occurred or may occur and informs workers about the risks, including warnings about people with a history of violent behaviour who could become a risk to employees.

Employers will also be required to take action to prevent violent incidents, investigate when they occur, and provide training and counselling for employees.

The amendments take effect just months after Saskatchewan teachers went public about violent incidents they’ve faced at school, including chairs thrown across the classroom, destroyed equipment and physical assault.

Over 35 per cent of the province’s teachers reported experiencing violence at work in the last five years, according to the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation (STF).

One substitute teacher described being struck in …