What can we do? | the-dart-program

Dealing with workplace violence

What Can We Do?

It is not enough to just have an Anti-Violence policy on the wall and an employee manual on the shelf that allegedly addresses the problem. A well-defined program starts with a firm policy statement from the company clearly stipulating how it promotes its safe work environment. This statement is backed up by a commitment from senior management and provides detail about:

• The prohibition of violence, threats, harassment, intimidation, and other disruptive behavior.

• An affirmation that ALL incidents will be investigated.

• The importance of employee involvement and does not minimize their importance in

reporting.

Training is a Key Step

Violence prevention awareness needs to be an integral part of new employee orientation as well as giving refresher classes on an annual basis to all employees of the company. Concentrated training should be given to the Managers and first Line Supervisors. These people are the eyes and ears of every organization. They see every person within their area of responsibility every single day and are more likely than anyone else to observe a potentially violent situation in its earliest stages. The training should include:

• A (JHA) "Job Hazard Analysis" must be performed by a competent

person to ensure that the plan is appropriate for the location.

• Training to educate all employees about workplace violence.

• A procedure for reporting workplace violence.

• Ways of preventing or diffusing volatile situations or aggressive behavior.

• Communication Skills Training.

• Mediation and conflict resolution.

• Stress management.

• Employee relations.

• Security procedures.

• Personal security measures & "Active Shooter Training."

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) – which includes counseling for mental

health, drug & alcohol issues, and protection for domestic violence victims.