Workplace Violence and Organizational Disruption: How to Prevent, Mitigate and Manage Workplace Violence Effectively
Workplace Violence Background
Nearly two million workers in the United States are victims of workplace violence. Disciplinary actions, domestic violence, and bullying are main contributors to WPV incidents. Unfortunately, many of those incidents go unreported.
OSHA established a “General Duty Clause” to protect organizations, keeping them free of hazards. Further protection occurs within local and state jurisdictions with specific workplace requirements.
Important Statistics
- More than 6 million businesses in the US are affected by WPV.
- Per the National Safety Council in 2020, more than 20,5000 workplace injuries were reported.
- The annual cost of workplace violence for employers is $121 billion according to the Department of Justice.
Sensible Solutions
WPV is here two stay. Early prevention and preparedness is key and establishing an comprehensive strategy can help thwart risks. To get ahead of the curve, it’s best to be proactive and prioritize three critical elements:
1. Training:
Focusing on the right training provides awareness to WPV and how to effectively respond to issues. Managers and supervisors should offer training to all employees focused on WPV awareness, security, and situational awareness.
2. Physical Security:
An organization’s first order of business is to enforce existing policies. Next, offer facility security assessments to uncover vulnerabilities and correct deficiencies.
3. Active Assailant Action Plans:
Active assailant action plans are three-tier models prioritizing the concept of prepare, react, and recovery.
- Preparation: Understanding risks, knowing limitations, establishing a plan, visualize the plan in practice, communicating objectives, and using situational awareness.
- Reaction: Identifying hazards, executing the game plan, monitoring situations, communicating with authorities, and documenting what occurred.
- Recovery: Obtaining professional medical help if needed, performing mental health assessments post-incident, providing mental health counseling, and communicating your experience to help others.
Workplace violence programs:
WPV programs focus on prevention and management. Effective WPV programs offer comprehensive support from leadership, thorough training, and various aids to pre- and post-incident.
Key components of a WPV program:
- Tailored policies and response protocols
- Continuous WPV awareness training
- A process for incident reporting
- Delegated responsibilities
- Behavioral health support
- Post-incident investigative process
Expected Results From Implementing a WPV Program
Establishing a WPV program influences better coordination, more consistency in response and management, and a safer all-around work environment. Taking action ahead of time adds a layer of security measures to help keep your team out of harms way.