Violence is Never the Answer

Workplace violence can occur in any business or work environment and can affect employees and business owners alike. Workplace violence is defined as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. It can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and even homicide. Workplace violence doesn’t just occur within a company, it can affect and involve employees, clients, customers, and visitors all the same. According to OSHA, acts of violence is currently the third-leading cause of fatal occupational injuries in the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), notes that of the 5,333 reported fatal workplace injuries that occurred in the United States in 2019, 761 were cases of intentional injury by another person. Unfortunately, many more cases than these go unreported. But no matter how it manifests, workplace violence is a major concern for both employers and employees nationwide.

Over the years, research has identified factors that may increase the risk of violence at certain worksites. Some of these factors include exchanging money with the public, working with volatile or unstable people, working alone or in isolated areas, providing services and care, working where alcohol is served, working late at night, or working in areas with high crime rates. Some of the professions that are most affected by these risk factors include delivery drivers, healthcare professionals, public service workers, customer service agents, law enforcement personnel, and those who work alone or in small groups.

While workplace violence is scary and sometimes unpredictable, the good news is that in most workplaces where risk factors can be identified, the risk of assault can be prevented or minimized if employers take appropriate precautions. OSHA recommends that all employers establish a zero-tolerance policy toward workplace violence regardless of their workplace’s potential for violence. This policy should cover all workers, patients, clients, visitors, contractors, and anyone else who may come in contact with company personnel. OSHA believes that a well-written and well-implemented workplace violence prevention program, combined with engineering and administrative controls and training can greatly reduce the incidence of workplace violence. However, just establishing these measures is not enough. 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. 

To learn more about workplace violence and how to implement a workplace violence prevention program, please visit: https://www.osha.gov/workplace-violence. 

DII is your partner in workplace safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand how to recognize your company’s specific risk to workplace violence and how to prevent it. Please contact your DII representative for more information.  #WorkplaceViolence