We have had a number of calls to the office about violent incidents in schools. Some incidents involve students and others do not. WorkSafeBC says, “Violence” means “the attempted or actual exercise by a person, other than a worker, of any physical force so as to cause injury to a worker and includes any threatening statement or behavior which gives a worker reasonable cause to believe that he or she is at risk of injury.” It does not have to be intentional to qualify as violence.  

If you have been involved in a violent incident, intentional or not, you should fill in a Worksafe 6A form.  This includes written or verbal threats of violence as well.  Please send a copy to your principal, the District at healthservices@surreyschools.ca and Gavin Slade-Kerr, our Health and Safety Officer, at hs@surreyteachers.org. 

Your principal may be confused by the 6A as the District uses a different form (long story), but this is the form BCTF members are to use.  You do not need to fill out both forms. The principal should use the 6A to complete the District form.  

You also have the option of a refusal of unsafe work.  Here is the information from the BCTF to walk you through the process.  When new students are admitted to your school, you have a right to know if they have a history of violence. Exercise your right to know and make sure you are informed of any potential risks.  

Leave a reply