Workplace Bullying in Ontario: What Employees Need to Know

Workplace bullying isn’t just “bad behaviour” — it can seriously harm your health, career, and peace of mind.

In Ontario, bullying at work is recognized under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) as a form of workplace harassment, which means it’s illegal for your employer to ignore it.

If you’re being intimidated, humiliated, or excluded at work, you don’t have to stay silent. You have rights — and legal options — under Ontario law.

What Is Workplace Bullying?

Workplace bullying means repeated and unwanted behaviour that embarrasses, isolates, or undermines a person at work.

It may include:

• Verbal abuse or yelling
• Humiliation in front of others
• Spreading rumours or gossip
• Excluding someone from meetings or group chats
• Micromanaging or unfairly criticizing someone’s work
• Threats, intimidation, or online shaming

A single disagreement doesn’t usually count as bullying. But when these behaviours form a pattern that creates a hostile work environment, it becomes a legal issue.

Is Workplace Bullying Illegal in Ontario?

Yes.

While the word “bullying” isn’t directly used in legislation, it falls under workplace harassment in Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

Under the OHSA, employers must:

• Have a written workplace harassment policy
• Investigate all complaints of bullying or harassment
• Take steps to protect employees from retaliation

Failing to do so is a violation of Ontario law — and can expose an employer to legal consequences.

Examples of Workplace Bullying in Ontario

Bullying can come from a supervisor, coworker, or even a client.

Common examples include:

• Making hurtful jokes or comments about someone’s appearance, background, or ability
• Deliberately excluding a person from group conversations
• Repeatedly nitpicking or sabotaging work
• Threatening job loss or demotion without cause
• Ignoring complaints or feedback in bad faith
• Cyberbullying through email or social media

When Workplace Bullying Becomes Constructive Dismissal

If your employer fails to stop ongoing bullying, the situation may amount to constructive dismissal in Ontario — meaning you’ve effectively been forced out of your job.

You could be entitled to:

• Full severance pay in Ontario —up to 24 months’ pay
• Compensation for damages
• Legal remedies under workplace human rights or employment law

Before resigning, speak to an Ontario employment lawyer. They can assess whether your situation qualifies as constructive dismissal and help protect your rights.

What To Do if You’re Bullied at Work

1. Document everything: Keep detailed notes with dates, times, and witnesses. Save texts, emails, or screenshots.
2. Report the behaviour: Follow your workplace’s harassment policy or report to HR or management.
3. Get support: Talk to a trusted friend, counselor, or medical professional if bullying is affecting your mental health.
4. Seek legal advice: If your employer ignores or dismisses your complaint, contact an employment lawyer before quitting.

You have the right to work in a safe, respectful environment — and the law is on your side.

Workplace Bullying and Mental Health

Bullying can trigger serious mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or insomnia.
If you’re unable to work because of workplace bullying, you may qualify for stress leave or even disability benefits.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend taking time off — and your employer must accommodate that under Ontario’s Human Rights Code.

Workplace Bullying vs. Harassment

Speak to a Workplace Bullying Lawyer in Ontario

If you’re being bullied or harassed at work, don’t quit or suffer in silence. Samfiru Tumarkin LLP has helped tens of thousands of Ontarians hold their employers accountable for allowing toxic or abusive workplaces.