Workplace violence is the third-leading cause of fatal occupational injuries in the US. It can consist of threats or acts of physical harassment, verbal abuse, disruptive behavior, intimidation at work, homicide, and more. Specific workplaces such as financial institutions, healthcare services, law enforcement, customer service agents, or delivery services may be at higher risk for violence. Workplace violence can negatively impact employees, from psychological damage, temporary or permanent absence, productivity loss, property damage, and more.

With violence in the workplace a growing concern, employers must take steps to reduce risks by taking preventative measures, identifying warning signs, and creating safe work environments.

Prevent Workplace Violence 

Although no organization is entirely immune from violence, employers can reduce the chance of it by assessing their worksites, implementing a workplace violence prevention program, and providing training. The program can be incorporated into an employee handbook or manual, and all workers should be made aware of the policy and procedures. Further, employees should be aware of the consequences and disciplinary actions if any employee participates in violence.

Identify Warning Signs 

Employers must support and protect employees when facing workplace violence by recognizing warning signs such as behavioral changes, hostility, decreased productivity, depression, or aggressive language or movements. Early intervention is critical to reducing the chances of potentially hazardous situations, so check on your employees and provide safe forums for them to communicate with you.

If any employee feels threatened or faces a violent individual, they should report it immediately to a human resource team or an appropriate supervisor to be investigated. 

Create a Safe Work Environment 

To create and maintain a safe workplace, companies should promote open communication among employees and supervisors, foster a friendly work environment, provide opportunities for individual development, and welcome employee feedback. 

Organizations should also implement security measures such as mass notification systems (MNS), security personnel, cameras, or access control systems. Suppose a disgruntled employee enters your office, or a robbery occurs in a bank. In that case, an MNS will send real-time alerts to intended audiences quickly to inform them of violence while also receiving help from law enforcement. Depending on your facility or workplace, panic buttons are an effective way to contact authorities and protect your employees. Panic buttons are valuable devices that provide one-touch incident reporting, location awareness capabilities, and overall peace of mind for your employees. They are ideal for use in vulnerable areas such as front desks, reception booths, and teachers’ desks. They are discreet, like our USB and Multi USB Panic Button, and on the go, like our WiFi Panic Button, which can be attached to a lanyard.

No one can be certain if and when an act of violence will occur, but ensuring the well-being and safety of your employees will help prevent potential incidents. Visit our website to view our systems’ features and capabilities to save valuable time while distributing critical alerts.