Workplace Violence

1. Workplace Violence Awareness and Prevention Presented by Your EAP (Employee Assistance Program) at Crites & Associates (800) 742-2858

2. Purpose The purpose of this training is to provide practical information to help prevent or reduce the possibility of workplace violence. Define workplace violence. Identify early warning signs. Understand organization policy. Know your role and responsibility.

3. What is workplace violence? Act or threat of: Physical violence Harassment Intimidation Other disruptive or threatening behavior By whom? Could be coworkers, vendors, ex-boyfriends or girlfriends, strangers off the street

4. Manager & supervisor responsibility Inform on policies Be specific Be aware of special needs Respond to threats & situations ASAP Refer employees to EAP, BUT CALL EAP FIRST Take all threats seriously

5. Warning indicators Bullying Conflicts, blaming Fascination with weapons Approval of incidents Desperation, suicidal thoughts Threats Substance abuse Extreme changes

6. Initial diagnostic steps How does the individual fit into the organization�s structure? Is his or her behavior tolerated because of perceived �irreplaceability�? What�s been done in the past? Has there been follow-through or enforcement of warnings? Solicit input from the supervisor.

7. Intervention steps Document the aggressive behavior. Decide if outside assistance might be beneficial. Establish a meeting schedule between the individual and his or her boss. Make sure higher-ups understand that a hostile work environment should not be tolerated.

8. What to do Get to a safe place, keep still Exit the building and take cover Make mental notes for police Notify Security and/or 9-911 Notify management

9. If you can�t get to a safe place: Stay calm Scream, yell for someone to call 911 Use judgment Notify management or Security when you can Seek medical attention if needed.

10. Dealing with someone one on one (see handout) Keep 3 � 6 feet between you and the individual. Practice taking two steps backwards, then running if you have to. In general, move slowly and calmly. Don�t shout or show anger. State the desired behavior & suggest ways to accomplish this. Avoid physical contact, pointing. Ask him/her to repeat what they just said. Don�t block access to an exit.

11. When domestic violence comes to work Let Security, HR, your supervisor know if you are being stalked or have a restraining order Provide a recent picture to Security or front desk staff Don�t go to the car or bus alone Don�t minimize the danger or feel that you do not deserve protection Believe your coworker, believe in Equal Opportunity harassment Let the EAP help you put together a Personal Safety Plan � 800-742-2858

12. Employees hold the key! Suggest to everyone: Wear your badge Report badge-less visitors Be aware of your surroundings at all times Don�t let others follow you in Walk in groups or call for an escort Report unusual activity or calls to Security Don�t argue with the messenger

13. It all starts with respect. #1 factor in cardiac stress � what do you think it is? Do you listen to people carefully? Can you avoid getting entangled in other people�s business? Respect other people�s world view, politics, religious beliefs, & customs. Know when to back off. Don�t talk down to people. Let the other person save face.