Dealing with workplace bullying: the occupational health nurse's role

Workplace bullying has a different meaning for different people, and there are many definitions. The overall theme is always the misuse of power or position. In legal terms bullying is not covered by specific legislation, unlike harassment which is covered by legislation, in particular the Equality...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Occupational health 2015-04, Vol.67 (4), p.27
Main Authors: Whittaker, Caroline, Davies, Lyndon, Morris, Glyn
Format: Magazinearticle
Language:English
Subjects:
Bullying
Diversity training
Line managers
Nurses
Occupational health
Personal relationships
Private sector
Professional responsibilities
Public sector
Work environment
Workplace violence
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Workplace bullying has a different meaning for different people, and there are many definitions. The overall theme is always the misuse of power or position. In legal terms bullying is not covered by specific legislation, unlike harassment which is covered by legislation, in particular the Equality Act. However, it is an increasing problem within the workplace. If an OH nurse is made aware of bullying at work, then there are responsibilities that they should consider in terms of supporting the employee. While OH nurses may become involved in allegations of bullying at work, it is fair to say that in the majority of situations, the issue is a management one and not medical. One must be careful not to inappropriately "medicalise" interpersonal relationship issues and allegations of bullying at work. Organisations should have robust systems in place to deal with any bullying situations promptly and appropriately.
ISSN:2397-1223