Workplace Violence, Part 2

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE, PART 2

Violence in society and the workplace seems to be increasing exponentially.Homicide is the third leading cause of death from occupational injury. Guns are the most commonly used weapons.

Outside sources of workplace violence include riots, protests, insurrections, and assaults.

Internal violence ranges from pushing and shoving incidents to assaults with guns and deadly weapons.

Violence usually results from an individual thinking that he or she is being unfairly treated, harassed, or overstressed by the company, supervisors, or co-workers. Many symptoms of workplace violence can be recognized before a dangerous and possibly lethal action develops. The best time to prevent violence is during the hiring and terminating of employees.

EARLY WARNING SIGNS FOR VIOLENCE

Worker:

1. History of violent behavior
2. Obsession with weapons
3. Possession of a weapon
4. Threatening or intimidating behavior
5. Obsessive job involvement, pushing the limits of normal conduct
6. Loner, paranoid, or grudge-holding personality
7. Desperation over problems-personal, financial, job
8. Fascination with violent incidents

Workplace:

1. Management's inconsistency in responding to violence
2. Management's lack of action against violent incidents, even if minor
3. Workplace stress such as layoffs, closings, and labor disputes
4. Locations and activities that are vulnerable to outsider threats
5. Poor security planning, especially in supermarkets, grocery and drug stores, gas stations, and convenience stores

High-violence hazard worksites include taxicabs, liquor stores, gas stations, detective and protective services, justice and public order establishments, grocery stores, jewelry stores, hotels and motels, and eating and drinking establishments. High-hazard occupations include taxicab drivers and chauffeurs, law enforcement officers, hotel clerks, gas station workers, security guards, stock handlers and baggers, store owners and managers, and bartenders.

Factors that increase the risk of homicide include exchange of money with the public, working alone or in small numbers, late-night and early-morning hours, high-crime locations, work guarding valuable property or possessions, and community locations.

Preventive Measures

1. Make high-risk areas visible to more people.
2. Install good external lighting.
3. Use drop safes to minimize cash on hand.
4. Carry only small amounts of cash.
5. Post signs stating that only limited cash is on hand.
6. Install silent alarms.
7. Install surveillance cameras.
8. Increase the number of staff on duty.
9. Provide training in conflict resolution and nonviolent response.
10. Avoid resistance during a robbery.
11. Provide bullet-proof barriers or enclosures.
12. Have police check on workers routinely.
13. Close establishment during high-risk hours.

Response to crime and violence

1. Remain calm.
2. Evaluate the situation.
3. Isolate the problem.
4. Avoid escalation.
5. Defuse the problem.
6. Get help.