New Guidance on Workplace Bullying 

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) have produced and published an updated Code of Practice in relation to Bullying in the workplace. 

The new Code replaces Codes of Practice previously issued by the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) and the Labour Relations Commission (LRC). While the essential principles of the Code remain unchanged some aspects may require employers to review their existing policy and procedures in relation to how complaints of Bullying are addressed within their organisations.

What is Bullying behaviour?

The Code defines Bullying as; “repeated inappropriate behaviour, direct or indirect, whether verbal, physical or otherwise, conducted by one or more persons against another or others, at the place of work and/or in the course of employment, which could be reasonably regarded as undermining the individual’s right to dignity at work”

What is not Bullying behaviour? 

It is important to note that bullying is defined as ‘repeated inappropriate behaviour’; The Code identifies ordinary workplace interactions such as; Performance Review, constructive feedback, performance management, appropriate disciplinary sanctions and workplace conflict as not Bullying in nature.

The Code explains the responsibilities of both employees and employers. It states that employers must have robust Anti-bullying Policy, which was developed in consultation with staff and signed by a senior member of the management team. 

The full code can be accessed here; Industrial Relations Act 1990 (Code of Practice for Employers and Employees on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullying at Work) Order 2020