Prevention of Violence in the Workplace, it is more THAN A SAFETY REMINDER

it is a Lesson in PREVENTION in the WORKPLACE

OverviewThreat and Response• Recognizing violent situations is a key component of reducing the risk of

violence to workers. We will learn:• How to respond to threats both from a distance and in person• How to defuse situations• How to leave an area when we are at risk

Reporting• There is a procedure in place to report incidents of violence. This may include

reporting to the police.

Follow-up• Finally, we will learn what counseling is available to workers who have been

exposed to violence.

Definitions

• Workplace Violence– Physical force to cause injury– Threatening statement– Threatening behaviour

Definitions

• Improper Activity / Behaviour– Behaviour by one worker to another worker– Includes horseplay or practical jokes– Not included in this program

Definitions

• Workplace– Where any worker is engaged in work– Includes vessel, vehicle, mobile equipment

Regulation

• Regulation Regardless of which state or province you live in:– Risk assessments– Procedures and policies– Instruction of Workers

Responsibilities

• Employers• Ensure a program is implemented• Identify sources of workplace violence• Provide training• Implement mitigation techniques

Responsibilities

• Managers– Implement program– Conduct risk assessments– Investigate incidents– Implement corrective actions– Ensure workers are trained

Responsibilities

• Supervisors– Workers aware of hazards– Employees trained in violence recognition– Workers report incidents– Workers are aware of resources– Risk assessments completed– Incidents are investigated– Counseling for affected workers

Responsibilities

• Workers– Provide input to risk assessments– Follow workplace procedures– Report incidents– Cooperate in investigations

Responsibilities

• Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committees ( where standards require a committee) – Assist in completing the risk assessments– Recommend possible solutions and corrective actions– Participate in investigations

Assessment and Controls

• Identify and evaluate risks• Identify solutions• Choose and implement solutions• Instruct workers• Documentation• Involve the JOHS Committee

Assessment and Controls

• Risk Assessment– Done within departments– Determines the risk to staff

Assessment and Controls

• Risk Assessment – continued

– Exposure - what can happen?– Frequency - How often might it happen?– Likelihood – What is the probability of

occurrence?

Assessment and Controls

• Solutions– Identify– Prioritize– Implement

Threat and Response

• Threat - From a Distance– By mail, message or phone– Most bomb threats are by phone– Disrupt the workplace– Create panic and anxiety

• All calls must be taken seriously

Threat and Response

• Response– Stay calm– Write exact wording– Try to identify caller– Suggest caller speak to supervisor– Alert another worker / supervisor

Threat and Response

• Response – continued

– Inform supervisor immediately– Call police– Avoid unnecessary handling of notes or letters– Prepare written report

Threat and Response

• Threat - In Person– Watch – for escalation of disagreement– Listen - for signs of disconnection

Threat and Response

• Response– Defusing techniques– Maintain contact with co-workers– Ensure you have clear exit– Remove potential weapons

Threat and Response

• Response – continued

– Leave the area immediately– Obtain assistance from supervisor or co-workers– Do not attempt restraint or try to apprehend– Do not hesitate to shout for help

Reporting

• What to report– Physical force– Threats

Reporting

• How To Report– Develop this slide based on your reporting

procedures

Follow-Up

• Review incidents with staff• Critical incident debriefing• Counseling

Summary

• State or Provincial Regulation• Definitions• Responsibilities• Risk assessments and controls• Recognizing and responding to threats• Reporting incidents