Equal Opportunity, Equity and Diversity
There are many occasions when interpersonal relationships in the workplace break down. There is a need to be pro-active in order to settle any resulting dispute efficiently and expeditiously.
In order to comply with OH&S and WorkSafe Legislation, it is necessary to investigate any allegations of bullying, harassment, improper/inappropriate conduct, breaches of discipline or discrimination. CHS can provide highly skilled staff to conduct an investigation on your behalf and present you with recommendations.
CHS also supports and provides Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) which encompasses a range of processes through which the parties may effectively resolve their disputes. The best known processes are Mediation, Facilitation, Arbitration and Counselling.
These processes provide our clients with specially trained neutral third parties to resolve the issues between the parties and are used as an alternative to litigation or a formal Court hearing.
Mediation
- Mediation is a process that allows the parties to identify the disputed issues, develop options, consider alternatives and endeavour to reach an agreement with the guidance of a Mediator. The Mediator has no advisory or determinative role in regard to the issues forming the dispute or the outcome of its resolution.
- Mediation may be undertaken voluntarily, under a Court order or subject to an existing contractual agreement.
- Trained ADR practitioners (Mediators) have demonstrated their competency and are bound by a code of ethics.
Facilitation
- This is a process in which the parties (usually a group) under the guidance of an ADR practitioner (Facilitator) identify the issues to be resolved, develop options and nominate the tasks to be accomplished. The Facilitator may decide to conclude the facilitation or may decide to continue to assist the parties to develop options, consider alternatives and hopefully reach an agreement.
Arbitration
- This is a process in which the parties present their arguments and evidence to an ADR practitioner (the Arbitrator) who makes a determination.
Counselling
- There are a wide range of processes that are designed to meet the needs of people trying to solve personal and/or interpersonal issues or problems. Counselling has a specific meaning under the Family Law act, where it is included as a Primary Dispute Resolution process (PDR).
Successful employers are becoming aware of today's requirements to comply with strict Equal Opportunity legislation.
EO legislation reflects our modern community standards of tolerance, equity and fair play and obligates employers and workers alike to maintain those standards in the workplace.
Nevertheless, employers are required to appropriately deal with the common incidence of:
- intimidation & bullying
- racial discrimination
- sexual harassment
- victimisation
- work place conflict
The broad principals of EO legislation often present management challenges for employers, and if managed without the required skills can result in dire consequences leading to a loss of harmony, workplace conflict and expensive time consuming legal proceedings before the appropriate tribunal. The ultimate result is a loss of productivity, reduced profits and demoralisation of your most valuable asset - your employees.
Creative and sensible EO management provides for a harmonious workplace, mutual respect between employers and employees, and higher levels of productivity, enthusiasm and attendance.
EARLY RESOLUTION
Conducting preliminary investigations on potential workplace EO problem areas and formulating preventative resolution plans.
COMPLAINT INVESTIGATION & RESOLUTION
In the event that a formal complaint is made, allegations need to be investigated without prejudice and without delay. The process of conducting such an investigation requires an independent and objective researcher with appropriate skills to obtain factual statements, prepare case backgrounds and make considered recommendations.
The CHS EO consultants maintain the highest level of critical objectivity in keeping with the requirements and spirit of the Equal Opportunity legislation.
Our objectives are to assist your business to achieve the highest level of EO standards, ensuring maximum productivity and output from a balanced and fair workplace.
CHS EO OBJECTIVES
CHS EO is committed to the objective of providing to client employers service and advice that reflects the spirit of Equal Opportunity legislation, enhances the resources of management in dealing with sensitive EO issues, and resolves complaints swiftly, objectively and fairly.
