Once a written or verbal complaint has been received, oxio will complete a thorough investigation. All efforts will be made to first resolve complaints through negotiated resolution or conciliation. Employees will not be demoted, dismissed, disciplined, or denied opportunity because they rejected sexual advances or because they lodged a complaint when they honestly believed they were being harassed or discriminated against.

All investigations will be approached in a fair, equitable, and professional manner. We commit to ensuring that conclusions are based on fact and that no employee is harmed in the process.

The investigator must be:

• Trained in investigative techniques;
• Have knowledge, training, and experience relevant to harassment and violence in the workplace; and
• Have knowledge of relevant legislation.

The investigation will include:

• Informing the respondent of the complaint;
• Interviewing the complainant, any persons involved in the incident, and any identified witnesses; and
• Interviewing any other persons who may have knowledge of the incident.

Statements from all parties involved will be taken and a decision will be made. If necessary, oxio may seek third-party assistance or legal counsel.

A copy of the complaint, detailing the complainant’s allegations, will be provided to the respondent. The respondent is invited to reply in writing to the complainant’s allegations. The reply will be made known to the complainant before the case proceeds. Where the investigation determines that harassment has occurred, a written report of the remedial action taken will be given to the employees concerned.

Even if the complainant decides not to lay a formal complaint, senior management may decide that a formal complaint is required based on the investigation findings and nature of the incident. Documents will be filed with the persons against whom the complaint is laid.

If harassment or sexual harassment has occurred, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken immediately.

A witness may provide notice of an occurrence anonymously.

Results of Investigation and Resolution

oxio will work with the complainant and respondent to develop a resolution within 45 days. If further investigation is required, the complaint may not be resolved within 45 days.

If the occurrence is investigated and cannot be resolved through negotiated resolution or conciliation, then upon completion of an investigation, Oxio will inform both the complainant and respondent in writing of the findings of the investigation and any corrective action that has been or will be taken as a result of the investigation. This written notification will be provided within 10 days of the investigation being completed and will not include the investigation report unless required by law.