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. It can affect and involve employees, clients, customers and visitors. Acts of violence and other injuries are currently the third-leading cause of fatal occupational injuries in the United States.
Who is at risk of workplace violence?
Many American workers report having been victims of workplace violence each year. Unfortunately, many more cases go unreported. Research has identified factors that may increase the risk of violence for some workers at certain worksites.
Such factors include:
Exchanging money with the public
Working with volatile, unstable people
Working alone or in isolated areas
Providing services and working where alcohol is served
Working late at night
Working in areas with high crime rates
Among those with higher risk positions:
Those who exchange money with the public
Delivery drivers
Healthcare professionals
Public service workers
Customer service agents
Law enforcement personnel
Community workers like gas, water, electric representatives, cable, phone, installers, etc.
Letter carriers
Retail workers
Taxi drivers
People who work alone or in small groups
How can workplace violence hazards be reduced?
In most workplaces where risk factors can be identified, the risk of assault can be prevented or minimized if employers take appropriate precautions. One of the best protections employers can offer their workers is to establish a zero-tolerance policy toward workplace violence. This policy should cover all workers, patients, clients, visitors, contractors and anyone else who may come in contact with company personnel.
By assessing their worksites, employers can identify methods for reducing the likelihood of incidents occurring. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) believes that a well-written and implemented workplace violence prevention program, combined with engineering controls, administrative controls and training, can reduce the incidence of workplace violence in both the private sector and federal workplaces.
This can be a separate workplace violence prevention program or incorporated into a safety and health program, employee handbook or manual of standard operating procedures. It is critical to ensure that all workers know the policy and understand that all claims of workplace violence will be investigated and remedied promptly. In addition, OSHA encourages employers to develop additional methods to protect employees in high-risk industries.
Other steps include:
Ensure all claims of workplace violence are taken seriously and investigated promptly
As much as possible, ensure employees are not traveling alone, especially at night or in unfamiliar locations
Limit the amount of money kept on premises and how much employees carry on the job
Secure parking lots and garages where employees park
Have a safety and security plan that includes all locations and workers
Establish status check-in plans for employees working in the field
Equip field employees with cell phones and hand-held alarms or noise devices
Ensure all company vehicles used by employees are kept in a safe place and maintained properly
Provide escorts for employees when working at night or in dangerous situations
Install and maintain video surveillance, extra lighting and alarm systems
Limit outsiders to work areas
Use identification badges or electronic keys for entrance into buildings
Provide security guards
Report any incidents to the police or other appropriate law enforcement agencies
Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
