Quebec's Bill 27: How to Prevent Psychosocial Risks in the Workplace

Since October 1st, 2025, Quebec's Bill 27 has strengthened employers' responsibilities regarding the prevention of psychosocial risks (PSRs). Excessive workloads, harassment, and lack of support are just some of the factors that can affect workers' psychological health and an organization's overall well-being.

What is Bill 27 in Quebec?

Bill 27, officially known as the Act to modernize the occupational health and safety regime, aims to strengthen workplace prevention measures, particularly by integrating psychosocial risks into occupational health and safety (OHS) practices. 

Since October 1st, 2025, employers have been required to address these risks as part of their prevention measures, just as they would physical hazards. Specific requirements vary depending on the size and circumstances of each workplace.

What are the Main Psychosocial Risks in the Workplace? 

Psychosocial risks are factors related to work organization, management practices, and professional relationships that can affect workers' physical and psychological health. 

Some of the main risk factors to watch for include: 

• Excessive workloads: Unrealistic deadlines, excessive demands, or insufficient resources.
• Lack of support and recognition: Limited guidance, encouragement, or appreciation for employees' contributions.
• Lack of autonomy: Limited involvement in decision-making and little control over daily tasks.
• Harassment and violence: Intimidation, humiliating behaviour, or aggression.
• Communication challenges: Unclear expectations, workplace tensions, and unresolved conflicts.

These risks can stem directly from working conditions, making organizational prevention measures essential. 

Bill 27: What are Employers' Responsibilities?

Employers must incorporate psychosocial risks into their workplace prevention strategies. The required measures depend, in part, on the number of workers at each establishment.

Workplaces with 19 Employees or Fewer 

These workplaces are generally required to implement a prevention action plan that includes identifying risks, establishing preventive measures, providing workers with information and training, and monitoring the effectiveness of these actions. 

A health and safety liaison officer must also be designated in accordance with applicable requirements.

Workplaces with 20 Employees or More

These workplaces are generally required to establish a more comprehensive prevention program, including risk identification and analysis, corrective measures, training, and ongoing monitoring. 

Worker participation mechanisms, such as a health and safety committee and a health and safety representative, are also required under applicable rules. 

Certain exceptions and specific requirements may apply.

How Can Your Organization Prevent Psychosocial Risks? 

To promote a healthier and safer workplace, consider these five key actions: 

1. Identify risks: Consult employees and assess working conditions that could affect their psychological health.
2. Implement preventive measures: Address workloads, management practices, and potentially harmful workplace situations.
3. Train and educate employees: Help managers and workers recognize psychosocial risks and adopt preventive practices.
4. Encourage open communication: Promote active listening, respect, and the reporting of workplace concerns.
5. Monitor and improve: Regularly assess the effectiveness of preventive measures and adjust them as needed.

Training: A valuable Tool for Preventing Psychosocial Risks 

Training plays an important role in raising awareness and helping employees recognize potentially harmful workplace situations. 

To support organizations in their prevention efforts, OHStraining offers online courses focused on psychosocial risks, including: 

• Harassment, Violence and Microaggressions: Recognize inappropriate workplace behaviours and understand their consequences.
• Managing Stress at Work: Develop strategies to better manage stressful situations.
• Communicating Effectively for Better Collaboration: Improve communication and strengthen professional relationships.
• Optimizing Your Time and Priorities: Build stronger organizational and time management skills.

These courses can complement organizational prevention measures and help raise awareness among employees and managers. 

Take Action Today for a Healthier Workplace

Bill 27 reinforces the importance of integrating psychological health into occupational health and safety practices. By identifying risks, implementing appropriate preventive measures, and educating employees, employers can help create a healthier and safer work environment. 

Looking to better equip your teams to recognize and manage psychosocial risks? 

Explore OHStraining's online courses and discover resources to support your workplace prevention initiatives. 

Explore psychosocial risk training courses by OHStraining