Saad Mirza
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Unfairly treated or fired at work?
April 17, 2025
How to Protect Yourself from Harassment at Work
Workplace harassment is, unfortunately, a reality for many Canadians. We’ve guided countless clients through the emotional and legal challenges of dealing with harassment—whether it’s a manager making unwelcome comments, a coworker spreading rumours, or a client crossing the line. Knowing your rights and the steps you can take is crucial to protecting your well-being and your career. Canadian law is clear: everyone deserves a safe, respectful workplace
What Is Workplace Harassment?
In plain language, workplace harassment is any unwelcome behavior—words or actions—that humiliates, offends, intimidates, or threatens you at work.
This can be verbal, physical, sexual, or psychological. Harassment isn’t just limited to colleagues; it can come from managers, clients, or even customers.
Here are some examples of workplace harassment:
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Type of Harassment
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Examples
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|---|---|
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Verbal
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Insults, offensive jokes, threats, repeated teasing
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Physical
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Unwanted touching, blocking movement, physical intimidation
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Sexual
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Unwelcome advances, sexual jokes, inappropriate comments, sharing explicit materials
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Psychological/Bullying
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Spreading rumours, isolating someone, undermining or belittling work
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Third-Party (Clients)
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Clients making suggestive remarks, inappropriate emails, or persistent unwanted contact
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Canadian law defines workplace harassment broadly. In Ontario, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Human Rights Code both protect employees from harassment, including sexual and psychological harassment.
Federally regulated workplaces are covered by the Canadian Human Rights Act, which also prohibits retaliation against those who report harassment.
Know Your Rights as an Employee in Canada
You have the right to a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. Key protections include:
• Canadian Human Rights Act: Protects against harassment based on race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, and more. It also prohibits retaliation if you make a complaint.
• Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA): Requires employers to have a clear harassment policy, investigate complaints, and protect you from reprisals.
• Right to Report Without Retaliation: Your employer cannot legally punish you for reporting harassment. If you’re dismissed or demoted for speaking up, you may have a wrongful dismissal claim.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You’re Harassed at Work
Step 1: Document Everything
Start by keeping a detailed record. Write down the date, time, location, what happened, and who witnessed it. Save emails, texts, or any digital communications related to the incidents.
In our case, a client’s meticulous notes and saved emails were the key evidence that led to a successful resolution with their employer.
Step 2: Review Your Company’s Harassment Policy
Most employers are required to have a harassment policy. You’ll usually find it in your employee handbook or on your company’s intranet. This policy should outline how to report harassment, the investigation process, and expected timelines. If you’re unsure where to find it, ask HR or a trusted supervisor.
Step 3: Speak Up (If Safe to Do So)
If you feel safe, let the person know that their behaviour is unwelcome and must stop. Setting boundaries early can sometimes resolve the issue before it escalates.
We’ve seen clients at Thrive Law successfully de-escalate situations by calmly but firmly stating their discomfort. However, if you feel threatened or unsafe, skip this step and move straight to reporting.
Step 4: Report the Incident Internally
Report the harassment according to your employer’s policy—usually to HR, your supervisor, or a designated officer. Submitting your complaint in writing is best, as it creates a clear record.
Be factual and include your documentation. Employers are legally required to investigate and address your complaint without punishing you for coming forward.
Step 5: Seek Legal Advice or File a Complaint Externally
Report the harassment according to your employer’s policy—usually to HR, your supervisor, or a designated officer. Submitting your complaint in writing is best, as it creates a clear record.
Be factual and include your documentation. Employers are legally required to investigate and address your complaint without punishing you for coming forward.
How an Employment Lawyer Can Help
• Confidential Legal Advice: We explain your rights and the best course of action for your situation.
• Assistance with Evidence Collection: We help you organize your documentation and build a strong case.
• Representation: We negotiate with employers, represent you in mediation, or take your case to tribunal or court if necessary.
Tips to Protect Yourself Emotionally
• Set boundaries early and don’t be afraid to say “no.”
• Seek support from trusted coworkers, friends, or a mental health professional.
• Remember: harassment is not your fault. Don’t blame yourself for someone else’s behaviour.
Workplace harassment is never acceptable. By understanding your rights and following these steps—documenting incidents, reviewing your employer’s policy, speaking up if safe, reporting internally, and seeking legal help when needed—you can protect yourself both legally and emotionally.
Author: Saad Mirza
I’m Saad Mirza, the founder of Thrive Law, a employment law firm dedicated to helping employees across Ontario navigate challenging job terminations and workplace issues.