In Ontario, employers have a legal duty under the Occupational Health and Safety Act to conduct an investigation that is appropriate in the circumstances whenever they become aware of potential harassment or violence in the workplace. But while investigations are essential for uncovering facts and ensuring compliance, many employers underestimate one critical truth: the investigation is often just the beginning.
Workplace investigations – though necessary – can leave behind a fractured environment, strained relationships, and lingering mistrust. In many cases, it’s what happens after the investigation that truly determines whether a workplace can move forward in a healthy, productive way.
That’s where workplace restoration comes in.
What Is Workplace Restoration?
Workplace restoration is a structured process aimed at rebuilding trust, repairing relationships, and re-establishing harmony following a disruptive event – whether it’s a substantiated harassment complaint, a shift in leadership, or even just ongoing interpersonal conflict.
Although it’s not mandated by legislation the way investigations are, workplace restoration supports an employer’s legal responsibility to protect the psychological and physical well-being of their employees. Both the Canada Labour Code (for federally regulated employers) and the Occupational Health and Safety Act in Ontario emphasize the importance of taking reasonable steps to prevent and mitigate workplace harm.
Restoration is one of the most effective tools for doing just that.
Why Restoration Is Key After an Investigation
An investigation might uncover the facts of a situation, but it often leaves unresolved emotions in its wake – feelings of resentment, fear, or betrayal among the complainant, the respondent, and even bystanders or leadership.
In these moments, employees need to know there is a path forward.
A restoration process can help address questions like:
- How do we rebuild trust between the parties?
- What does each employee need to feel safe and respected again?
- How can leadership support a healthier workplace culture?
What Does Workplace Restoration Look Like?
Every situation is different, but a workplace restoration process after an investigation typically includes:
- One-on-One Meetings
Private, individual discussions with each party (ideally conducted by HR, a trusted member of the leadership team, or an external consultant like those at Bridge Legal & HR Solutions) help clarify the needs, concerns, and potential boundaries of each party before bringing parties together.
- Facilitated Conversations
A neutral third party guides a conversation between the involved employees to foster mutual understanding. This is a delicate but powerful step—and it’s crucial that the facilitator is trusted, unbiased, and experienced. Bridge Legal & HR Solutions offers skilled facilitators who help create a space where employees can express concerns and move toward respectful collaboration.
- Agreements & Commitments
At the end of a successful conversation, a written document may be created outlining mutual expectations, agreements on behaviour, and commitments going forward.
What Comes Next? Additional Restoration Tools
Sometimes, a single conversation isn’t enough. Depending on the findings of the investigation, additional support might be needed, including:
- Coaching: Targeted one-on-one coaching can address skill or behaviour gaps that surfaced during the investigation.
- Training: Broader team training in areas like harassment prevention, respectful workplace communication, or bystander intervention can help reset norms and improve the workplace culture.
- Workplace Assessments: If conflict seems to go beyond two individuals, a deeper assessment can uncover systemic issues that need attention.
Let Bridge Legal & HR Solutions Help
Whether you’re navigating the aftermath of a workplace investigation or looking to proactively build a stronger, healthier team, Bridge Legal & HR Solutions is here to support you.
Our experienced HR professionals and legal advisors offer:
- Neutral and compassionate workplace investigations
- Customized workplace assessments
- Tailored training programs
- Experienced facilitators for restorative conversations
- Strategic coaching for individuals and teams
Let us help you not only meet your legal obligations but also create a workplace where your team can thrive after conflict.
Ready to take the next step in restoring your workplace? Contact Bridge Legal & HR Solutions today to learn how we can support you with practical and compassionate solutions. To find out how we can help, contact us through our contact form or call us at 647-794-5442.
