What should I do if I experience workplace violence?

If you have been threatened at your workplace, or have been the victim of physical violence at work, report it immediately to your supervisor and detail the incident in writing. If your supervisor or employer does not act, or the threat of further violence is serious, report it to the local police.

How can you protect employees from workplace violence?

Updated: 6/17/2020

1. Complete background checks on new employees.
2. Create a policy that prevents harassment.
3. Create an effective line of communication.
4. Training and awareness are key factors in workplace violence prevention.
5. Establish a strict anti-violence policy.
6. Encourage your employees to accept individual differences.

Who is responsible for workplace violence?

Any employer or employee who actually carries out workplace violence is liable to be charged with assault under the criminal law. Assault is defined as “any act which intentionally or recklessly causes another person to apprehend immediate and unlawful violence.” (R v Venna (1976) QB 421 ).

What responsibilities do employers have to prevent workplace violence?

While there is no federal law that establishes an employer’s duty to prevent workplace violence against employees, companies must comply with the general duty clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, which states that each employer must furnish a place of employment that is “free from recognized …

What causes violence at work?

Staff shortages, increased patient morbidities, exposure to violent individuals, and the absence of strong workplace violence prevention programs and protective regulations are all barriers to eliminating violence against healthcare workers.

What is the definition of violence in the workplace?

Workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. It ranges from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and even homicide.

What is the DOL policy on workplace violence?

The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) policy and position on workplace violence are clear. It is our policy to promote a safe environment for our employees and the visiting public, and to work with our employees to maintain a work environment that is free from violence, harassment, intimidation, and other disruptive behavior.

What should be included in a workplace violence prevention policy?

The violence prevention policy should explicitly state the consequences of making threats or committing acts of violence in the workplace. A comprehensive workplace violence prevention policy and program should also include procedures and responsibilities to be taken in the event of a violent incident in the workplace.

Who are at highest risk for workplace violence?

Taxicab drivers have the highest risk of workplace homicides of any occupational group. Workers in health care, community services, and retail settings are at increased risk of nonfatal assaults. Risk factors for workplace violence include dealing with the public, the exchange of money, and the delivery of services or goods.