Description

What is workplace equality and diversity?

Creating a workplace free of discrimination is the first step toward true workplace equality. Though discriminatory practices are not acceptable, it goes far beyond this and requires equal opportunity, access to development and progression paths, and paying people equitably — no exceptions. It's also important to understand that achieving workplace equality is an ongoing effort. Employers must commit to fostering an inclusive environment, celebrating differences among their teammates, and providing all employees with fair treatment without bias or prejudice. An emphasis on these efforts will be key in enabling businesses of any size to achieve true equality in the workplace.

For an organisation to embrace diversity and create a truly inclusive workplace, it's essential to look at each element of your operations. When considering how you can create more equality, reflect on the details rather than looking at the bigger picture. Bear in mind that even the small things you say and do could have an impact on different people.

To ensure a level playing field in the hiring process, start by taking a close look at your job
descriptions – are there any potential phrasings that could be seen as exclusive? Think about how your language choices may encourage or discourage certain demographics from applying for jobs with your company. By paying attention to these small details, you can make sure everyone is welcomed into your workspace.

About this course

•  Training Provider: OHS.com.au
•  Location: Online
•  Course length: Varies average 20 minutes
•  Time: Self-paced
•  Certification / Accreditation: Certificate of Completion

Background – How to encourage a safe work environment?
It's essential that all members of the organisation feel secure and respected. The Human Resources division has a key role to play in this. All parties need to know that HR is there for them if they want to vocalise any issues, problems or queries without fear of retribution. It's absolutely paramount that employees can recognise any unconscious biases they may carry in safety, with access to guidance and resources where appropriate - without negatively impacting others. HR must provide a supportive environment for these processes.

Equipping workers with educational materials is an important step in driving awareness and creating positive changes in the workplace. Finding resources that feature a variety of discrimination types—such as indirect or unconscious biases, or offensive language––helps to increase employee recognition of potential issues. With increased education, employees are better able to identify their own behaviors and actions which could use improvement. Moreover, learning about the experiences of colleagues gives everyone a shared sense of understanding and brings people together.

It is essential for any successful organisation to be in agreement about their core values and ideas. One way to ensure this is accomplished is by fostering an atmosphere of respect and open communication among employees, wherein individual backgrounds and beliefs are appreciated. Celebrating diversity also serves as a critical way to communicate the company’s commitment towards equality, justice, and inclusion. Leaders must set a good example through their own words and actions by consistently demonstrating their dedication towards these values. Workplace sessions targeting such principles will further embed these ideals into the culture of the business. In doing so, employers can create a united work environment where all team members feel valued
equally.

Course Outline
OHS’s Principles of Equality and Diversity in the workplace training course covers a comprehensive study on diversity and equity in the workplace. This training course will help you create a culture that is free from unconscious bias and micro-inequities, as well as give everyone an opportunity to leave their mark on your organisation. The course covers various topics, including what diversity, equity are, how bias and inequities hinder them, ways to prevent biases and inequities, tips on taking personal responsibility for actions and reporting problems, as well as recognising the value of
creating a space that is respectful of everyone's contributions.

Learning Outcomes

•  Raise understanding of the importance of diversity, equity and flexibility in the   workplace.
•  Counteract the consequences of implicit biases and minor discrepancies in the   workplace.
•  Minimise the risk of unconscious bias and disparities resulting in an issue.
•  Encourage the reporting of any behaviour that is deemed inappropriate.
•  Foster a work environment where individuals feel secure, accepted and   respected.
•  Create and maintain a healthy and secure working environment.