Workplace Violence Safety Topic

Safety recommendations and prevention measures against workplace violence.

Overview

OSHA defines workplace violence as a range of threats that include, verbal abuse, physical assaults escalating all the way to homicide. It is estimated that upward of 2 million Americans are victims of workplace violence annually. Those employees that handle money in/with the public, deliver or work alone (or nearly alone) are considerably at a higher risk than others. Also, note that those working in high-crime areas or in residential homes are also at an escalated risk.

Prevention

Employers should establish a zero-tolerance policy regarding workplace violence and set the precedent in both procedures and actions that any violation of the zero-tolerance policy is unacceptable and ground for termination. Educate employees on all policies and procedures on what is deemed as violence. Providing a safe environment for employees, encouraging employees to not leave the premises alone at night and…