Posted On 22 Jun 2019
Have you experienced violence in your workplace? Yes, workplace violence. Who would have thought that we would be talking about violence in the workplace but that’s what’s going on in our work environments now. According to OSHA, violence in the workplace is under-reported.
But before we go any further, what is the definition of “violence” in the workplace?
We understand violence to be that which has been reported in the mainstream media. A disgruntled employee or customer goes on a rampage shooting. This type of violence makes headlines, as we have witnessed this past summer in the Capital Gazette in Maryland where 5 employees were killed. There is a lot of speculation afterward…you know what I’m talking about.
The other definition of violence in the workplace is “any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs in the work site. It ranges from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and even homicide”, according to OSHA.
Have you ever experienced this or know someone who has?
I have…personally. I was looking into finding an IT solution that would increase process automation; thus, I was bringing change to the environment. People that would be affected didn’t like it. They thought their jobs were going away. I felt very intimidated in that environment. I even joked with my boss at the time that I might need my personal protection service.
Did I report this? Not formally…just in that joking matter.
So what is the solution to workplace violence?
First, employees and employers need to understand the definition of “workplace violence”, per OSHA’s guidance. Next implement clear guidelines, policies, and mock drills so that everybody is aware of what to look for and what to do in case of an emergency. Lastly, implement programs that empower employees to manage their own emotions.
Our programs teach individuals to manage the following:
- Allergies
- Stress
- Anger
- Relationships
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Depression
If the workplace does not provide employee family support programs, there’s hope for you!
We know you have many priorities in your business and life. But, are you willing to risk violence at your workplace?
Contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation HERE.
- Nearly 2 million American workers report having been victims of workplace violence each year
- Fatal work injuries involving violence and other injuries by persons or animals increased by 163 cases to 866 in 2016
- Homicides increased by 83 cases to 500 in 2016, and
- Suicides increased by 62 to 291
- Overdoses from the non-medical use of drugs or alcohol while on the job increased from 165 in 2015 to 217 in 2016, a 32-percent increase.
- Overdose fatalities have increased by at least 25 percent annually since 2012