Violence in the Workplace

Module 14

Objectives

Define violence

Identify the problems of violence

Explain methods to resolve problems rather than through violence

So what exactly defines Violence?

Violence is: Violent acts, including physical assaults and

threats of assault, directed toward persons at work or on duty

Introduction

Recently, violence in the workplace has received considerable attention Press Safety and health professionals

Violence in the Workplace

Examples of recent co-worker violence Killings of

Taxicab drivers

Convenience store clerks

Security guards

Police officers

What are the Hazards

An average of 20 workers are murdered each week in the US

Majority are robbery related

Most assaults occur in service setting such as hospitals, nursing homes, and social service agenciesFactors that place workers at high risk include interacting in the workplace, exchanging money, delivering goods or services, and dealing with violent people

How can I be exposed or put at risk?

Anyone can become a victim of workplace violence Taxicab drivers have the highest risk or any

occupational group For nonfatal workplace assaults, workers in

health care, community services, and retail settings are at increased risk

Risk Factors

A number of factors may increase a worker’s risk for assault

Contact with the public Exchange of money Delivery of passengers Working with unstable people Working alone Working late night Working in high-crime areas Guarding valuable property

3 Strategies to Offset Violence

1. Environmental designs

2. Administrative controls

3. Behavioral strategies Depends on workplace environment and

violence problems Collecting and reporting violence data is

helpful in determine what needs to be done

Prevention Strategies

1. Environmental Strategies Includes procedures while working in the

retail industry• Carrying small amounts of cash• Posting signs that small amount of cash is on hand• Working with cashless transactions

School• Locked doors• Hallway cameras

Environmental Designs

Visibility and lighting Making high risk areas visible Access to

entrances and exits Where attackers can hide? Unlocked doors?

Security devices Cameras, alarms and two way mirrors, key

card access

Administrative Controls

Staffing plans and work practices Escorting patients and prohibiting

unsupervised movement Increasing the number of staff on duty Use of security guards Work practices during exchange of money

and open and close of business Policies for reporting threats

Behavioral Strategies

Training employees in nonviolent response and conflict resolution

Training that addresses hazards associated with specific tasks

Training that increases knowledge and awareness of the risk of workplace violence