Deal with Violence in the Workplace
At least 26 American workers were murdered at work from August 26, 2015 through May 4, 2016. This shows that workplace violence is a serious problem, but there are many things that one can do to prevent it and to address incidents.
Contents
Steps
Helping Prevent Workplace Violence
- Recognize that employee safety is crucial.
- Speak up if you see or hear anything that makes you concerned for your safety or the safety of others in the workplace. Do not keep it to yourself. If there is an incident of violence, it must be addressed.
- Follow your own advice. Do not engage in violence at any time. If you are angry, there are better ways to handle your anger, such as taking a break and using nonviolent community.
Addressing an Incident of Violence
- Refer to your employee handbook for the name and job title of the person you are to voice safety concerns to.
- Go to the person who has been designated to receive reports of safety concerns to and explain in detail what you have witnessed.
- Follow up with the individual who you brought your safety concerns to if you do not hear anything back from him or her.
- Take action. Call the police if the situation warrants it. Murder, for example, requires a call to the police. Call emergency services if the situation requires medical attention.
Warnings
- Safety in the workplace is everyone's business. This is not a matter than can be delegated to any individual or department. All employees play a role in ensuring the workplace is as safe as possible. Do not turn your back or ignore anything that makes you worried about employee safety. Do not chose to put your head in the sand or not get involved because you are involved.
