Workplace Violence and Other Unsafe Conditions

1. Workplace Violenceand Other Unsafe Conditions By Dawn Kitz-Wekerle

2. What is Workplace Violence? • Violence at work occurs when a worker is made to feel unsafe or threatened, or is the target of violent acts. • Violence includes harassment, verbal threats, abuse, assault and homicide. • Most violent acts against workers are done by strangers, clients or patients, and not by co-workers.

3. VIOLENCE RISK:Working at Night or Early in the Morning • Convenience Stores • Fast Food Restaurants • Late-Night Video / DVD Rental Stores

4. WHAT TO DO:Working at Night or Early in the Morning • Be active and alert • Make sure outside lights are on and working • Run an “empty register”, just $5 bills and change

5. VIOLENCE RISK:EXCHANGING Money With The Public • Stores • Restaurants

6. WHAT TO DO:EXCHANGING Money With The Public • Be friendly and briefly look directly at customers • Keep cash register fund to a minimum • Make sure work areas are clean, tidy, and well-lit

7. VIOLENCE RISK:Working With Patients or Clients Who May Be Violent • Hospitals • Nursing Homes • Psychiatric Centers

8. What To Do:Working With Patients or Clients Who May Be Violent • Learn to recognize signs of potential violence: • Pacing • Restlessness • Clenched Fists • Loud Talking, Threatening • Get assistance

9. VIOLENCE RISK:Working Alone • Cashiers • Gas Station Attendants • Home Care Workers • Taxi Drivers • Sales People • Security Workers

10. What To Do:Working Alone • Assess the hazards • Do not enter any situation where you feel unsafe • If attacked, scream — as loud and long as possible • If someone grabs your purse or other personal or store property, do notresist and do notchase the thief

11. General Safety Procedures • Know & follow company safety policies/procedures BEFORE you begin work • ALWAYS report unsafe and violent incidents • Be alert and aware of your surroundings; report unusual activity • NEVER take unsafe matters into your own hands