Violence in the Workplace

1. Violence in the Workplace How to Prevent and Defuse for Supervisors

2. Session Objectives • You will be able to: • Identify the causes of workplace violence • Spot the signs of potential violence • Follow required security procedures • Respond effectively to violent acts • Recognize and respond to terrorist threats

3. Session Outline • The risks of workplace violence • Factors that contribute to violence • Symptoms of impending violence • Security measures to prevent violence • Proper response to violent incidents • Proper response to terrorist threats

4. Sources of Violence • Employees • Former employees • Customers • Other outsiders • Criminals • Terrorists

5. Who’s Affected by Violence? • Victims • Witnesses • Co-workers • Customers and others

6. Encounters with Violence • 1/6 of violent crimes occur in the workplace • Violence is the second leading cause of workplace deaths • 18,000 are assaulted at work each week • Violence costs industry millions a year • Some employees face higher risks

7. Triggers of Violence • Layoff • Firing • Bad behavior warning • Poor performance review • Conflict with co-worker

8. Triggers of Violence (cont.) • Domestic violence • Disputes with ex-partners • Alcohol or drug abuse • Emotional problems • Financial difficulties

9. Triggers of Violence (cont.) • Customer interactions • Robberies, muggings, other crimes • Random acts of violence

10. Background on Violence • Questions?

11. Spot the Signs • Of potential for violence: • Threatening to get even • Blaming others • Talking about violence or weapons • Holding grudges

12. Spot the Signs (cont.) • Of immediate threat: • Threatening words or moves • Raising voice level • Abusive language

13. First Response • Do: • Remain calm • Show respect • Focus on problem • Alert co-workers • Report the incident

14. First Response (cont.) • Don’t: • Argue or raise your voice • Mimic an angry person’s behavior

15. Know Security Measures • Cameras, silent alarms • Locks, coded entry • Lighting • Reporting procedures • Conflict resolution training • Counseling

16. Follow Security Procedures • Report strangers • Escort visitors • Wear ID • Lock valuables • Report missing items or signs of break-in • Use danger signal

17. Work Safely After Hours • Let people know • Avoid being alone • Stay near phones • Lock office door

18. After Hours Work Safely (cont.) • Let security know when you leave • Walk out with someone • Check car before getting in • Sit near driver on public transportation

19. Personal Security • Keep vehicle doors locked • Walk in busy, well-lit areas • Walk purposefully • Make eye contact • Check your surroundings

20. Personal Security (cont.) • Go into store if you’re followed • Carry only the money you need • Divide valuables on your person • Carry items close to your body • Check your vehicle before entering

21. Background Checks • Prevent violent employees from entering workforce • Conduct checks for a legitimate business interest • Use the job application • Avoid negligent hiring claims

22. Progressive Discipline • Puts employee on notice, reducing likelihood of violence • Object is to notify, punish appropriately, and reform employee • Steps usually include: • Informal/oral notice • Written notice • Suspension • Termination

23. Employee Grievances • Effective procedures resolve conflict: • Verbal discussions with supervisor • Written explanation from supervisor • Written decision from personnel department • Appeals

24. Termination Meetings • Choose an office near an exit • Minimize furniture and other objects in the room • Request security personnel • Obtain a restraining order, if necessary, after a termination

25. Violent Confrontations • Don’t resist a robbery • Try to fight off physical assault • Report the incident • Don’t clean up until you’ve been examined • Deal with your reaction

26. Action Against Violence • Questions?

27. Terrorist Threats • Likely strikes • Potential targets

28. Cyberterrorism • Company measures • Firewall • Virus protection • Employee practices • Never install unlicensed software • Delete suspicious e-mail • Never reveal passwords • Avoid illegal websites

29. CBRN • Chemical agents • Biological agents • Radioactive weapons • Nuclear strikes

30. Mail • Suspicious letters • Don’t open • Place in plastic container • Isolate it from everyone • Report it • Unexpected packages • Report unattended objects • Look for bad or missing addresses, oily stains, lopsided shapes

31. Response to Terrorism • Turn off ventilation units • Leave the area • Close off area • Call 911 • Notify your manager/security • Make list of affected people

32. Evacuate, If Necessary • Know evacuation signal • Listen for instructions • Shut down equipment • Close doors and windows • Follow exit route • Go to assembly area

33. Shelter in Place • Locate emergency kit • Turn off HVAC equipment • Go to sheltering room • Shut windows and doors • Seal windows, doors, and vents • Listen to the radio

34. The Aftermath • Signs of distress • Withdrawing from peers • Calling in sick • Overworking • Difficulty concentrating • Ways of coping • Talk about it • Spend time with loved ones • Turn TV coverage off • Seek professional help

35. Key Points to Remember • Workplace violence can take many forms and has numerous causes • Keep alert to signs of potential violence and take immediate action when you recognize them • Make sure to follow security procedures and encourage employees to do likewise