The Hazard Inquiry Model (THIM)

THIM is a preliminary, non-disciplinary process designed to assess harassment and discrimination reports through a safety lens. Rather than replacing formal investigations, it focuses on gathering facts to evaluate Occupational Health and Safety risks. Its goal is to ensure immediate workplace safety and determine if a formal disciplinary process is required, all while prioritizing confidentiality and procedural fairness.

As part of our commitment to a Culture of Care, the University of Alberta recognizes that physical, psychological, and cultural safety and well-being are fundamental to a safe workplace. To act on this commitment and proactively address workplace hazards, we are introducing The Hazard Inquiry Model (THIM) as a key mechanism for supporting psychological health and safety.

The Hazard Inquiry Model (THIM) enables the University of Alberta to meet its obligations under applicable legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, Occupational Health and Safety Code, Occupational Health and Safety Act, Alberta Human Rights Act, Collective Agreement obligations, and University policy/procedures such as the Discrimination and Harassment Policy and Accommodation Policy and Workplace Violence and Harassment Prevention Plan by identifying, assessing, and mitigating workplace risks related to potential harassment and discrimination.

It provides a fair, timely, and non-disciplinary mechanism that upholds procedural fairness, confidentiality, and trauma-informed practice for all parties. By determining when concerns warrant formal investigation under the respective collective agreement/handbook or university policies, the model avoids unnecessary escalation while supporting a safe and respectful workplace.

How to submit a reported concern

Concerns regarding potential workplace hazards, harassment, or discrimination can be submitted to the Workplace Response Coordinator (WRC).

There are multiple ways to report a concern:

  • Submit an online concern: Submit your reported concern via the confidential - wkplresp  inbox.
  • Participate in a follow-up meeting with the WRC: WRC will contact - wkplresp to arrange a meeting (held virtually or by phone) to review your concern in a supportive, trauma-informed environment. Intake meetings are scheduled as soon as possible...
  • Submit an incident through the U of A Incident Management Portal
  • Through your HR Partner 
  • With support from your Union Representative

What type of concerns are applicable under the Hazard Inquirty Model?

The model applies to reported concerns made by or against any employee involving harassment or discrimination that may constitute a hazard under the Alberta Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation, Code or Alberta Human Rights Act.

The model applies to reported concerns made by or against any employee involving harassment, discrimination, bullying, objectionable or unwelcome conduct, comments, or actions that may:

  • Be connected to a protected ground under the Alberta Human Rights Act; or
  • Be considered a workplace health and safety hazard under Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation, or Code.
  • Involve a single incident or repeated incidents.

When a concern is reported to the Workplace Response Coordinator (WRC), it does not automatically start a formal disciplinary investigation. The Hazard Inquiry Model is intended to first understand the concern, consider workplace safety, provide supportive resources, and identify appropriate hazard controls or other next steps.

To make sure concerns are handled in the most appropriate and supportive way, this process does not apply to:

  • Concerns that are already part of a formal investigation or disciplinary process
    These matters will continue to be managed through the organization’s established procedures.
  • Situations where there may be an immediate risk to someone’s health or safety
    If there is a concern about someone being at immediate risk of harm, the employer will take appropriate steps to help keep everyone safe.
  • Performance-related concerns or other workplace matters
    Concerns about performance or other workplace issues that do not involve a workplace hazard may be better addressed through the appropriate workplace process.
  • Matters that are not considered workplace hazards under Alberta legislation This process is intended for concerns that meet the definition of a workplace hazard under Alberta’s Occupational Health and Safety Act, Regulation, or Code.

Not sure where your concern fits?

If you are unsure whether your concern fits within the Hazard Inquiry Model, or you have a workplace concern that does not seem to fit the areas above, you can reach out to a manager, your HR Partner, or association representative.

They can help you:

  • Understand your options;
  • Determine what process may be most appropriate;
  • Connect you with the right resources and support; and
  • Identify any steps that may be needed to help address the concern.

If you have a concern, we encourage you to reach out. You do not need to be certain about which process applies before asking for support.

Can I submit a concern anonymously?

While you may initiate contact with the WRC anonymously, effective evaluation and implementation of workplace hazard controls typically require sufficient detail that would benefit from follow-up with the individual who submitted the concern.

What are the limits of confidentiality?

Confidentiality is strictly maintained throughout the Hazard Inquiry Model process, and information is shared only on a need-to-know basis. However, confidentiality may need to be broken under the following circumstances:

  • Concerns involving a risk of imminent harm to self or others, requiring an immediate employer response.
  • Reported allegations involving the harm or exploitation of minors.
  • Overriding statutory obligations under Alberta OHS legislation or formal legal processes.

Can I attach digital files to my report?

Yes. When submitting a concern via the - wkplresp inbox or email, you may attach supporting digital documentation (such as emails, logs, or written summaries). PDF format is preferred, though documentation is not mandatory to initiate an intake review.

I need more information; who can I reach out to?

For more information on the Hazard Inquiry Model, you can reach out to your supervisor, your HR Partner, the Workplace Response Coordinator at - wkplresp or your association representative.