Violence in the Workplace

1
Violence in the Workplace

• How to Prevent and Defuse for Supervisors

2
Session Objectives

• You will be able to
• Identify the causes of workplace violence
• Spot the signs of potential violence
• Follow required security procedures
• Respond effectively to violent acts
• Recognize and respond to terrorist threats

3
Session Outline

• The risks of workplace violence
• Factors that contribute to violence
• Symptoms of impending violence
• Security measures to prevent violence
• Proper response to violent incidents
• Proper response to terrorist threats

4
Sources of Violence

• Employees
• Former employees
• Customers
• Other outsiders
• Criminals
• Terrorists

5
Whos Affected by Violence?

• Victims
• Witnesses
• Co-workers
• Customers and others

6
Encounters with Violence

• 1/6 of violent crimes occur in the workplace
• Violence is the second leading cause of workplace
  deaths
• 18,000 are assaulted at work each week
• Violence costs industry millions a year
• Some employees face higher risks

7
Triggers of Violence

• Layoff
• Firing
• Bad behavior warning
• Poor performance review
• Conflict with co-worker

8
Triggers of Violence (cont.)

• Domestic violence
• Disputes with ex-partners
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Emotional problems
• Financial difficulties

9
Triggers of Violence (cont.)

• Customer interactions
• Robberies, muggings, other crimes
• Random acts of violence

10
Background on Violence

• Questions?

11
Spot the Signs

• Of potential for violence
• Threatening to get even
• Blaming others
• Talking about violence or weapons
• Holding grudges

12
Spot the Signs (cont.)

• Of immediate threat
• Threatening words or moves
• Raising voice level
• Abusive language

13
First Response

• Do
• Remain calm
• Show respect
• Focus on problem
• Alert co-workers
• Report the incident

14
First Response (cont.)

• Dont
• Argue or raise your voice
• Mimic an angry persons behavior

15
Know Security Measures

• Cameras, silent alarms
• Locks, coded entry
• Lighting
• Reporting procedures
• Conflict resolution training
• Counseling

16
Follow Security Procedures

• Report strangers
• Escort visitors
• Wear ID
• Lock valuables
• Report missing items or signs of break-in
• Use danger signal

17
Work Safely After Hours

• Let people know
• Avoid being alone
• Stay near phones
• Lock office door

18
After Hours Work Safely (cont.)

• Let security know when you leave
• Walk out with someone
• Check car before getting in
• Sit near driver on public transportation

19
Personal Security

• Keep vehicle doors locked
• Walk in busy, well-lit areas
• Walk purposefully
• Make eye contact
• Check your surroundings

20
Personal Security (cont.)

• Go into store if youre followed
• Carry only the money you need
• Divide valuables on your person
• Carry items close to your body
• Check your vehicle before entering

21
Background Checks

• Prevent violent employees from entering workforce
• Conduct checks for a legitimate business interest
• Use the job application
• Avoid negligent hiring claims

22
Progressive Discipline

• Puts employee on notice, reducing likelihood of
  violence
• Object is to notify, punish appropriately, and
  reform employee
• Steps usually include
• Informal/oral notice
• Written notice
• Suspension
• Termination

23
Employee Grievances

• Effective procedures resolve conflict
• Verbal discussions with supervisor
• Written explanation from supervisor
• Written decision from personnel department
• Appeals

24
Termination Meetings

• Choose an office near an exit
• Minimize furniture and other objects in the room
• Request security personnel
• Obtain a restraining order, if necessary, after a
  termination

25
Violent Confrontations

• Dont resist a robbery
• Try to fight off physical assault
• Report the incident
• Dont clean up until youve been examined
• Deal with your reaction

26
Action Against Violence

• Questions?

27
Terrorist Threats

• Likely strikes
• Potential targets

28
Cyberterrorism

• Company measures
• Firewall
• Virus protection
• Employee practices
• Never install unlicensed software
• Delete suspicious e-mail
• Never reveal passwords
• Avoid illegal websites

29
CBRN

• Chemical agents
• Biological agents
• Radioactive weapons
• Nuclear strikes

30
Mail

• Suspicious letters
• Dont open
• Place in plastic container
• Isolate it from everyone
• Report it
• Unexpected packages
• Report unattended objects
• Look for bad or missing addresses, oily stains,
  lopsided shapes

31
Response to Terrorism

• Turn off ventilation units
• Leave the area
• Close off area
• Call 911
• Notify your manager/security
• Make list of affected people

32
Evacuate, If Necessary

• Know evacuation signal
• Listen for instructions
• Shut down equipment
• Close doors and windows
• Follow exit route
• Go to assembly area

33
Shelter in Place

• Locate emergency kit
• Turn off HVAC equipment
• Go to sheltering room
• Shut windows and doors
• Seal windows, doors, and vents
• Listen to the radio

34
The Aftermath

• Signs of distress
• Withdrawing from peers
• Calling in sick
• Overworking
• Difficulty concentrating
• Ways of coping
• Talk about it
• Spend time with loved ones
• Turn TV coverage off
• Seek professional help

35
Key Points to Remember

• Workplace violence can take many forms and has
  numerous causes
• Keep alert to signs of potential violence and
  take immediate action when you recognize them
• Make sure to follow security procedures and
  encourage employees to do likewise