Workplace Conduct Policy – EcoServants®

EcoServants® Workplace Conduct Policy

EcoServants® is committed to a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all interns, volunteers, staff and collaborators. Harassment or violence of any kind will result in termination.

1. Harassment Policy

Policy Statement

EcoServants® is committed to providing a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all interns, volunteers, staff and collaborators. Harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.

Definition of Harassment

Harassment includes any unwelcome conduct, behavior or communication that demeans, humiliates, threatens or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Verbal harassment (insults, slurs, threats, derogatory comments)
  • Written or electronic harassment (emails, messages, social media, forums)
  • Visual harassment (offensive images, gestures or displays)
  • Sexual harassment, including unwanted advances, comments or requests
  • Harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, nationality or any other protected characteristic

Harassment may occur in person, online, during virtual meetings or through any communication platform used in connection with EcoServants® activities.

Reporting and Enforcement

Any intern or student who experiences or witnesses harassment is encouraged to report it promptly to EcoServants® leadership or the designated program coordinator. All reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly and handled as confidentially as possible.

Consequences

Harassment will result in disciplinary action up to and including immediate termination of the internship, volunteer role or affiliation with EcoServants®.

2. Workplace Violence Policy

Policy Statement

EcoServants® maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward workplace violence. Any form of violence, threat of violence or aggressive behavior is strictly prohibited.

Definition of Workplace Violence

Workplace violence includes, but is not limited to:

  • Physical assault or attempted assault
  • Threats of physical harm or intimidation
  • Aggressive or violent behavior
  • Possession or use of weapons during EcoServants® activities
  • Harassment or stalking that escalates to threats or fear for personal safety

This policy applies to all EcoServants® environments, including field sites, events, offices, remote work settings and virtual interactions.

Reporting and Response

Any threats or incidents of violence must be reported immediately to EcoServants® leadership. In cases of imminent danger, contact emergency services first. EcoServants® will take immediate action to protect participants and may involve law enforcement when appropriate.

Consequences

Violence or threats of violence will result in immediate termination and may result in further legal action.

3. Workplace Violence Risk Assessment (OHSA s. 32.0.3)

Risk Assessment Statement

EcoServants® has assessed the risk of workplace violence in accordance with Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) section 32.0.3.

Assessment Factors Considered

The assessment includes consideration of:

  • The nature of EcoServants® activities (environmental cleanups, restoration projects, remote work)
  • Interaction with members of the public during events and field activities
  • Remote and virtual collaboration environments
  • Historical incident review and proactive prevention

Risk Mitigation Measures

EcoServants® mitigates risk through:

  • Clear zero-tolerance conduct policies
  • Mandatory onboarding expectations and code of conduct acknowledgment
  • Supervised activities and defined leadership contacts
  • Remote-first safety practices and controlled communication channels
  • Immediate escalation procedures for incidents or concerns

Ongoing Review

Risk assessments are reviewed periodically and updated as programs, locations or activities change.

Acknowledgment

All interns, students and volunteers are required to review and comply with these policies as a condition of participation with EcoServants®. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action, including termination.