Violence in the Workplace Module 14. Objectives Define violence Identify the problems of violence...
-
Upload
marion-lee -
Category
Documents
-
view
213 -
download
1
Transcript of Violence in the Workplace Module 14. Objectives Define violence Identify the problems of violence...
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