The City of Victoria is helping fund a new training program to respond to and prevent sexualized workplace harassment and violence in the local hospitality industry, including at bars and restaurants.
TIPS (Training in Prevention and Safety) is a voluntary and free online course now being offered to business employers, owners, managers, supervisors and employees, according to the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC).
In a news release, EVA BC says it co-developed the course with Good Night Out Vancouver (GNO) following a motion passed by Victoria city council in 2019 to establish sexualized violence prevention training.
That’s because workplace sexual harassment is “particularly pervasive” in the hospitality industry, with bars and restaurants being the top two public places where Canadians report experiencing unwanted behaviour, EVA BC finds.
“Prevention measures like the TIPS training are the best defence against workplace sexual harassment,” said Ninu Kang of EVA BC.
“This initiative will show businesses how to create positive workplace cultures that support the health and safety of staff and patrons and prevent sexual harassment.”
EVA BC’s website dives into the course’s curriculum, which includes modules on strengthening workplace culture, recognizing and responding to incidents and supporting those impacted.
With two versions of TIPS, one for employers and one for employees, the self-guided online training offers scenarios, videos, downloadable resources and interactive quizzes and will likely take up to three hours to complete.
EVA BC says the course, also funded by Justice Canada, aims to create a shared responsibility in the workplace where both employers and employees learn how to work together to mitigate risks.
“This initiative is a step in the right direction to prevent sexualized violence in Victoria. The work started in 2019 but was really elevated by the voices of survivors and hospitality industry leaders,” added Coun. Jeremy Loveday.
“Public safety begins with education, and we are grateful for the collaboration of GNO and EVA to develop this free training for the hospitality industry.”
Participants can register for TIPS online here.
CHEK News
