10 Workplace Violence Tips

1. Develop a workplace violence policy: Employers should have a clear policy that outlines the expectations and procedures for preventing and responding to workplace violence. This policy should include guidelines for identifying and reporting potential incidents of workplace violence, and procedures for conducting investigations and taking disciplinary action. The policy should also include information on the types of behavior that will not be tolerated, such as bullying, harassment, and threats. It is important for employers to communicate this policy to all employees and to provide training on how to recognize and report potential workplace violence.
2. Train employees on how to identify and report potential workplace violence: Employees should be trained to recognize the signs of workplace violence, such as threats, bullying, and harassment. They should also know how and to whom to report any concerns. This training should be conducted regularly, and should include information on how to identify and respond to potential incidents of workplace violence. The training should also cover how to handle difficult or confrontational situations and how to de-escalate potentially violent situations. Employees should also be made aware of the resources available to them, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and counseling services, in the event they become a victim of workplace violence.
3. Establish a zero-tolerance policy for workplace violence: Employers should clearly communicate that any form of workplace violence will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action. This includes physical violence, threats, bullying, and harassment. Employers should also make it clear that retaliation against employees who report incidents of workplace violence will not be tolerated. It’s important for employers to enforce this policy consistently and to take immediate action when violations occur. This will help to create a culture of safety and respect in the workplace, where employees feel comfortable reporting incidents of workplace violence without fear of retaliation.
4. Encourage open communication: Employees should feel comfortable expressing their concerns and should be encouraged to report any incidents of workplace violence. Employers should create a culture of open communication, where employees feel comfortable speaking up and reporting incidents without fear of retaliation. This can be achieved by regularly conducting employee surveys, holding town hall meetings, and providing anonymous reporting mechanisms. Employers should also make it clear that they take all reports of workplace violence seriously, and that employees will be protected from retaliation for reporting incidents.
5. Implement security measures: Employers should consider implementing security measures such as security cameras, alarms, and security personnel to deter and respond to workplace violence. This can include measures such as installing security cameras in common areas, providing employees with panic buttons or emergency alarms, and hiring security personnel to patrol the premises. Employers should also have a plan in place for handling active shooter situations, and conduct regular drills to ensure employees are prepared in the event of an emergency.
6. Create an emergency response plan: Employers should develop an emergency response plan that outlines the steps to be taken in the event of workplace violence, including evacuation procedures, communication protocols, and emergency contact information. The plan should also include procedures for notifying local law enforcement, as well as identifying and providing medical assistance to injured individuals. The emergency response plan should be reviewed and practiced regularly to ensure that all employees are familiar with the procedures and know what to do in the event of an emergency. Employers should also have a crisis management plan in place to manage the aftermath of a workplace violence incident, including support for the affected employees and ensuring continuity of the business operations.
7. Be aware of potential triggers: Employers should be aware of potential triggers that may lead to workplace violence such as job loss, demotion or disciplinary action, or personal issues. They should also be aware of the warning signs of workplace violence, such as threatening behavior, verbal abuse, or erratic behavior. Employers should have a system in place to monitor and assess these warning signs, and to intervene if necessary. This can include conducting regular employee performance evaluations and providing support services such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or counseling services.
8. Take all reports of workplace violence seriously: All reports of workplace violence should be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated to ensure the safety of all employees. Employers should have a system in place for reporting and investigating incidents of workplace violence, and should take appropriate action to address any violations of the workplace violence policy. The investigation should be conducted in a timely manner and should include interviews with the individuals involved and any witnesses. The findings of the investigation should be documented and appropriate action should be taken to address any violations of the workplace violence policy.
9. Provide support for victims of workplace violence: It’s important for employers to provide support for victims of workplace violence, including counseling, time off, and protection from retaliation. Employers should also ensure that the victim is not placed in a position where they will have further contact with the perpetrator, and should provide a safe and secure environment for the employee to return to work. It’s important for employers to understand that workplace violence can have a long-term impact on the victim and should offer support services to help them cope with the trauma.
10. Continuously evaluate and improve the workplace violence prevention program: Employers should continuously evaluate their workplace violence prevention program and make improvements as needed. This includes reviewing and updating the workplace violence policy, conducting regular employee training, assessing the effectiveness of security measures, and ensuring that emergency response plans are up to date. Employers should also gather feedback from employees on the workplace violence prevention program, and use this feedback to make necessary adjustments. It’s important for employers to understand that workplace violence prevention is an ongoing process and to be committed to making the workplace a safe and secure environment for all employees.

Workplace violence is a serious issue that affects everyone in the workplace, it’s important for employers and employees to work together to prevent and respond to workplace violence. By following these tips, you can create a safer workplace for everyone.