A student that exhibits violent acts may be identified by way of a Behaviour Plan that is constructed with the input of both administration and teachers / EAs. Since working with a child prone to violent actions represents a work place hazard, the supervisor (principal) is required to provide training for workers (teachers and EAs) to help them protect themselves. The board has agreed to provide the first half of the Non Violent Crisis Intervention Training, the part that deals with self defence, either during regular work hours or after school with that time paid back.

If the situation requires it, Personal Protective Equipment such as chest protectors, kevlar anti-bite sleeves, etc will be provided by the board as well.

This is all required under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The worker (teacher / EA) once trained and outfitted (as required), by law is also required to use these devices.

If you work with a violent child in your workplace, you should review the Behaviour Plan to make sure that training (for sure) and Personal Protective Equipment (where required), are listed as part of that plan. You should also remind the supervisor (principal) of the legal requirement to provide training to a worker, before they assume duties with that student in the classroom.

When getting the training, I recommend that our members only get the self-defence component of the Non Violent Crisis Intervention training. Taking the full course, which involves interventions, may make a worker obliged to physically intervene in situations, and that may have legal implications. The EAs are fully trained for that aspect.

Allan Kirby
Certified Member, ETFO, of the Joint Health and Safety Committee