Workplace bullying refers to repeated unreasonable actions of individuals directed towards an employee (or a group of employees) which are intended to intimidate, degrade, humiliate or undermine: or which seeks to create a risk to the health or safety of the employee(s).
Recently, I have been getting numerous complaints from members of the PPC regarding bullying and intimidation from their supervisors during pre-shift meetings or in general. As we all know, Canada Post has revolving door of management and the corporation has hired new supervisors who may not have been previously exposed to a unionized environment.
In one recent incident, a Shift 1 Supervisor has repeatedly dismissed the concerns of our members when asking questions regarding working conditions and workplace policies. This supervisor has gone further and approached members outside these meetings with an attitude intimidating them with their aggressive, rude and unprofessional behavior. The shop stewards from Shift 1 have taken issue with them about their behavior but this specific supervisor seems to continue with their actions.
Moreover, an additional supervisor on Shift 1 is often heard making unacceptable comments on the work floor such as, “give me food, I am pregnant.” This incident was reported to management but nothing has been done. In another incident, it was reported where supervisor directed one member to not use the washroom until they go on break. When this member questioned the supervisor they were threatened to be sent home if they did not obey the order.
Placing unreasonable expectations on employees and dismissing employees in an unprofessional manner is unacceptable. Additionally, making statements regarding one’s medical condition can make employees feel uncomfortable. This kind of behavior can harm ones dignity and self-esteem and, possibly creates situations of high stress, tension and a sense of helplessness. An unsafe and unhealthy work environment has shown to create health problems and potentially, under these conditions one can develop feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. Excessive monitoring or micro managing, being shouted at, being intimidated or humiliated in front of others are also examples of bullying.
Workplace bullying can also be instigated by your co-workers. The term mobbing refers to a group of coworkers targeting another worker. If you or your co-workers are getting bullied at work talk with someone you absolutely trust in the workplace that can advise you and advocate for you while keeping it confidential. Speak to a shop steward or someone at the local office. Ask for the written policies of Canada Post and CUPW on bullying. Ask for a copy of corporations own CODE OF CONDUCT for your reference.
Always remember you are NOT the source of the problem. Recognize that you are being bullied. Recognize that bullying is all about control and it has nothing to do with your work performance. Keep a record of incidents and document everything. You can also forward your concerns, including the names of management, directly to CUPW national office via:
By Mail
Bully Bosses
377 Bank Street, Ottawa ON K2P 1Y3
By email
Expect the bully to deny their actions if they are confronted or put on notice. I encourage all to take a strong stand against bullying and keep the workplace safe for all of us.
STOP Bullying. No one deserves to feel worthless. – Rebecca Black
In Solidarity,
Anju Parmar-Urie
3rd Vice-President
la/CUPE-3338