Ontario retail businesses are struggling to cope with a sharp rise in crime, violence and harassment. Hear tips on how you can protect your workplace and team with a new comprehensive guide on retail safety. Plus, learn what changes the Working for Workers Five Act makes to the OHSA and is now law and how it may impact your business.

Note: This episode was recorded December 9, 2024. All information presented was in effect at that time.

Show Notes

In the News: Working for Workers Five Act

• The Working for Workers Five Act (Bill 190) is now law: Learn how inspectors will check for compliance

Retail Safety & Security Guide

Check out the Retail Safety & Security Guide on the Retail Council of Canada's website.

Articles and videos

• Respond to crime and violence in your retail business with this free guide
• Retail theft and violence: 6 ways to keep your staff and business safe
• Avoid violent encounters at work: 4 expert tips to safely handle a person in distress
• 5 de-escalation tips when responding to agitated customers
• De-escalating high-stress situations at work: 4 stages to aggression, 4 responses
• Hiring a security guard? Here's what you need to know
• 6 expert tips to support people after a traumatic workplace event
• Small Biz Bytes Video Series: Workplace Violence and Harassment (video)
• Safety in 60 seconds: Violence and harassment safety tips (video series)

Guides, sample policies and other resources

• Workplace Violence and Harassment Toolbox - Information, tools and assessments that can be useful to employers as they identify hazards and risks related to violence and harassment.
• Workplace Harassment Policy
• Reporting Workplace Violence and Harassment Procedures
• Workplace Harassment Investigations in Small Businesses: Tips for Employers
• Employee Violence Risk Assessment Questionnaire
• Security Guard Industry Toolkit: Risks, Hazards and Solutions

Contact Workplace Safety & Prevention Services

• Looking for Small Biz resources and more information? Visit the WSPS Small Business Centre.
• Have health and safety questions? Contact WSPS Customer Care online or call 1
• 877-494-WSPS (9777).
• Have questions about this podcast or show ideas? We'd love to hear from you! Contact [email protected].