Workplace Bullying in TAFE

Over the last twelve months the PSA has advised and supported members in the TAFE institutes who have been subjected to behaviour from managers and supervisors, which can only be described as humiliating, demeaning and intimidating.

The Union will not tolerate the bullying and harassment of its members and delegates through the use of:

• threats, either physical or psychological,
• verbal abuse, being shouted or sworn at,
• humiliation in front of co-workers, and
• threats of dismissal.

These are examples of incidents which PSA members have been subjected to.

Members should be aware that under OH&S legislation the Department has legal duty and responsibility to control all health and safety hazards (including all psychological hazards) in the workplace.

THE PSA REGARDS ALL BULLIES, BE THEY INSTITUTE MANAGERS, SUPERVISORS, TEACHERS OR CO-WORKERS, AS FALLING UNDER THE "PSYCHOLOGICAL HAZARDS" LABEL.

The Departments "code of conduct", in particular sections 16 and 17, covers appropriate behaviour and respect in the workplace.

The PSA acknowledges that the endless restructuring of institutes by Institute Directors puts enormous stress on TAFE employees, however the Union will not accept that excuse being used by "BULLIES" when threatening and intimidating its members.

Members who are being subjected to the types of behaviour discussed in the bulletin should contact their relevant PSA Organiser/delegate immediately.