Prevention of Workplace Violence

Prevention of Workplace Violence 

  TYPE I -- VIOLENCE BY STRANGERS AND OUTSIDERS

Here are ten ideas from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for preventing violence against workers who have contact with the public:

1. Use physical barriers to protect yourself
2. Install silent alarm systems, panic buttons
   
3. Use mirrors, raised platforms and make sure that the area where money is exchanged can be seen
4. Use bright and effective lighting
5. Make sure that you have enough staff members
6. Use drop safes so that there is only a limited amount of cash on hand. Make sure that you post signs telling people that you only have a limited cash supply
7. Use height markers on exit doors
8. Use video surveillance equipment so that activity is always being monitored
9. Control or limit access to the facility
10. Install locks on doors that lead to staff-only area
11.    TYPE II -- VIOLENCE BY PEOPLE RECEIVING SERVICES
    Here are five steps managers can take to prevent violence against service providers:
    

    1. Make sure that workers never work alone
       
    2. Allow workers to carry pagers, mobile phones, etc.
    3. Train workers so that they know what to do in a violent situation
    4. Rethink your policy on wearing of uniforms. 
       
    5. Meet often with your employees so they can voice concerns about safety issues   TYPE III -- VIOLENCE BY ACQUAINTANCES OR EMPLOYEES
       These eight suggestions are only the beginning of a comphrensive violence prevention plan:s
       

       1. Have close contact with employees. Make sure that everyone is feeling a part of the organization.
       2. Review any act of violence that has occurred in the workplace, even if it is considered minor.
          
       3. Have a WRITTEN policy explaining how violence in the workplace will not be tolerated.
       4. State clearly what workplace violence is and what is and is not acceptable behavior.
       5. Train all staff about what to do if violence occurs.
       6. Set up a "Buddy" system so each employee has someone to go to in case they are having problems at work.
       7. Remain calm when confronting an employee.
       8. Look for warning signs