Policy on Sexual Harassment
The Provincial Dental Board of Nova Scotia recognizes that harassment of a sexual nature is unacceptable under all circumstances. The Board has a responsibility to require that all dentists, hygienists, dental assistants, and all other persons working in dental workplaces in Nova Scotia conduct themselves appropriately.
Complaints of sexual harassment in the workplace will be pursued through the Board's discipline process. A charge may be laid and, if upheld, will result in a finding of unprofessional conduct and sanctions imposed by the Discipline Committee.
The Board's discipline process will also pursue a complaint of sexual harassment, which is alleged or substantiated to have occurred outside the dental workplace. If the Registrar is satisfied that a threat to a healthy workplace exists, a charge will be laid. If upheld, the result will be a finding of either unprofessional or infamous conduct and sanctions imposed by the Discipline Committee.
Employers are responsible for providing a working environment that is free of sexual harassment. They are accountable for the conduct of their employees. In addition, they have a responsibility to take corrective measures in the event of inappropriate conduct of patients or other visitors.
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