Laurier implements Disconnecting from Work Policy

Wilfrid Laurier University is implementing a Disconnecting from Work Policy 8.15 which encourages employees to disconnect from work outside of their regular working hours to contribute to balance and wellbeing.

The policy supports university employees in balancing their working and personal lives – whether working in the workplace or remotely, or whether working traditional hours or flexible hours.

“Disconnecting from work is important for individual wellbeing and helps employees achieve a healthy and sustainable work-life balance,” says Pam Cant, chief human resources and equity officer. “The university supports and aims to foster a workplace culture that values disconnecting from work outside of an employee’s working hours including during periods of vacation.”

The policy defines disconnecting from work as not engaging in work-related communications, including emails, telephone calls, video calls or sending or reviewing other messages, to free employees from the performance of work outside of working hours, including periods of vacation. The employee’s ability to disconnect depends on the university’s business and operational needs and the duties of the employee’s position as outlined in their contract and/or collective agreement. The policy does not impact the ability for employees to engage in overtime, on-call, or other additional working hours as per normal practice and in accordance with the applicable policies and collective agreements.

While nothing precludes employees from contacting others outside of regular working hours, employees are encouraged to be respectful of each other’s regular working hours and shouldn’t generally expect a response outside of those hours for non-urgent matters.

The policy was created in response to provincial government requirements as part of Bill 27 (Working for Workers Act) which includes amendments to the Employment Standards Act 2000 requiring Ontario employers to create and implement a disconnecting from work policy. It is important to note that the bill does not create any new rights or benefits as an employee’s right to disconnect from work already exists in other parts of the Employment Standards Act.

Laurier’s policy, which is consistent with other universities in the sector, is generic as it must be written to apply to all employees, including faculty, staff and student employees.

Employees are encouraged to review the policy as well as information and wellness resources:

• Student Staff: Student Wellness Resources