Workplace violence is defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment intimidation or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site.  These incidents can range from threats or verbal abuse up to homicides.  Incidents are not limited to employees but can include clients customers or visitors.

There are several steps an employer can take to help limit the risk of an incident of workplace violence occurring.

1.      It is imperative that an employer have zero-tolerance policies in place that address incidents of workplace violence, harassment, intimidation and other threatening behaviors.  The policies must be clear that all members of the organization are subject to these policies.  Everyone from the management to the line staff.  These policies should work in concert with any discipline policies that the employer has.

2.     Early identification of concerning behaviors is important in any workplace.  The ability to address potential problems early is one of the keys to preventing incidents of workplace violence.  With this goes the need for the employer to establish a culture which has open communication at all levels.  Employees need to feel comfortable talking with supervisors or managers about concerning behavior they have witnessed.

3.     Assessing worksites for potential hazards to employees and developing plans to mitigate the hazards is an important part of any violence prevention plan.

4.     Providing hands on training on incidents of workplace violence is paramount.  Training should include identifying potential developing incidents, what to do if an employee becomes concerned for their safety, who to contact and discuss their concerns with, and what to do if they find themselves in the middle of a developing situation that has turned violent.

Preparing employees for the unthinkable is an ongoing process.  For further information on training products and opportunities please reach out to:  Duncan@threatmanagementnw.com