Violence in the Workplace By: Kory Hildebrand NREA / Northeast Community College Violence in the Workplace

What is Workplace Violence? Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It can occur at or outside the workplace and can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide, one of the leading causes of job-related deaths. However it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees nationwide.

Who is Vulnerable? 2 million American workers are victims of workplace violence each year People who have contact with money People who have increased contact with other people Video

How can Employers protect Employees Zero-tolerance policy Establish a workplace violence prevention program Incorporate information

How can Employees protect themselves Learn how to recognize, avoid, or diffuse potentially violent situations by attending personal safety training programs. Alert supervisors to any concerns about safety or security and report all incidents immediately in writing

Cont. Avoid traveling alone Carry only minimal money and required identification Encourage employees to report and log all incidents and threats Provide medical evaluation Report violent incidents to police Inform victims of their legal rights

Cont. Discuss the circumstances of incident Encourage employees to share information Offer stress debriefing sessions Investigate all violent incidents Discuss changes in company policy

OSHA Employers must provide a safe and healthful workplace Employers who do not can be cited

Where can you get information? www.osha.gov 1-800-321-OSHA (6742)

How to deal with potential violence

Conflict Resolution