Description: Describes workplace violence and the University's commitment to protect its employees from workplace violence.

I.  Scope

This policy is intended to protect all persons working for York University including but not limited to students, faculty, instructors, staff, and volunteers.

II.  Definition

The term, “workplace violence” means:

1. the exercise of physical force by a person against an employee, in a workplace, that causes or may cause personal injury to the employee;
2. an attempt to exercise physical force against an employee, in a workplace, that could cause physical injury to the employee; or
3. a statement or behaviour that it is reasonable for an employee to interpret as a threat to exercise physical force against the employee, in a workplace, that could cause physical injury to the employee.

III.  Policy

1. York University is committed to protecting all persons working for York University and shall take reasonable precautions to prevent workplace violence.
2. York University shall assess, and reassess as necessary, the risks of workplace violence that may arise from the nature of the workplace, the type of work and/or the conditions of work.
3. Anyone who engages in workplace violence shall be subject to complaint procedures, investigation, remedies, sanctions and discipline up to and including termination.

IV.  Review

This policy shall be reviewed at least annually.

V. Responsibility

The Vice-President Equity, People & Culture shall be responsible for establishing a program, guidelines and procedures to implement this policy.