Creating a Safe and Respectful Workplace

What is Workplace Violence?

Workplace violence is a global issue that can have a significant impact on employees’ physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It is any act of aggression, intimidation, or hostility that occurs in the workplace. These actions can be perpetrated by co-workers, supervisors, clients, or even external parties. It encompasses a range of behaviours, including:

• Physical Assaults: Hitting, pushing, or any form of physical attack.
• Threats: Verbal or written threats of harm or violence.
• Harassment: Repeated, unwelcome behaviours that create a hostile work environment (can include sexual harassment).
• Intimidation: Actions or language that instils fear or distress.
• Bullying: Repeated, offensive, and malicious behaviour intended to undermine or belittle an individual.

(Source: Workplace violence. https://www.osha.gov/workplace-violence)

Types of Workplace Violence:

1. Type I: Criminal Intent – Violence committed by individuals who have no direct relationship with the workplace, such as a robbery.
2. Type II: Customer/Client Violence – Violence directed at employees by individuals who are receiving services, such as a customer or client.
3. Type III: Worker-on-Worker Violence – Violence between employees, which may include bullying, harassment, or physical altercations.
4. Type IV: Personal Relationship Violence – Violence that comes from personal relationships and affects the workplace, such as domestic violence.

(Source: The 4 Types of Workplace Violence: Tips to increase safety and awareness. https:// www.easyllama.com/blog/types-of-workplace-violence)

How to Prevent Workplace Violence

Preventing workplace violence involves proactive measures to foster a safe and respectful work environment. Here’s how you as an employee can help prevent workplace violence:

1. Stay Aware and Alert

• Be Observant: Pay attention to your surroundings and the behaviour of those around you. If you notice anything unusual or concerning, report it to a supervisor immediately.
• Recognize Warning Signs: Be aware of behaviours that may indicate potential violence, such as aggressive language, threats, or unexplained mood swings.

2. Communicate Effectively

• Use Clear and Respectful Communication: Express yourself clearly and respectfully in all interactions. Avoid language or behaviours that could be misinterpreted or escalate tensions.
• Address Issues Early: If you have a conflict with a co-worker, address it calmly and directly. Try to resolve issues through open and respectful dialogue before they escalate.

3. Practice Personal Safety

• Maintain Professional Boundaries: Keep professional interactions within the boundaries of work. Avoid personal confrontations or arguments that could lead to violence.
• Avoid Provocative Behaviour: Steer clear of actions or comments that could provoke others. Be mindful of your tone and body language, especially in stressful situations.

What to Do If You Encounter or Witness Workplace Violence

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation: If you witness an incident or are involved in one, try to remain calm and assess the immediate risk to yourself and others.
2. Seek Assistance: Alert a supervisor or a trusted friend if you feel safe to do so.If the situation is dangerous, evacuate the area if possible and contact emergency services immediately.
3. Document the Incident: Record details of the incident as soon as possible, including what happened, when, where, and who was involved. This information will be crucial for any investigations.
4. Follow Reporting Procedures: Report the incident according to the company’s Procedure of Accident, Incident Reporting, and Investigation. The procedure is as follows: Take immediate action (first aid, bring to clinic, call for help) as required, notify manager immediately for their information, report/notify within 24 hours, inform/call/notify SHC Secretary for reporting, and report via SMUDS or Incident/Accident Reporting QR Code. Details of this procedure can be referred to on our SMUDS website [SMUDS Solutions: E – Approve Document (greentagpro.com)].
5. Support and Follow-Up: Seek support from HR if you are affected by the incident. Follow up on the outcome of the report and any actions taken to ensure that the issue has been resolved and that you feel safe in your work environment.

What Not to Do If You Encounter or Witness Workplace Violence

1. Don’t Ignore the Issue: Ignoring or dismissing signs of workplace violence can lead to escalation and harm. Address concerns promptly.
2. Don’t Retaliate or Escalate: Avoid responding with aggression or retaliation. This can worsen the situation and may have legal consequences.
3. Don’t Rely Solely on Others: While it’s important to report incidents, take personal responsibility for your own safety and well-being.
4. Don’t Disregard Reporting Procedures: Always follow established procedures for reporting and documenting incidents. This ensures that issues are handled appropriately and legally.

(Source: How to intervene when you witness workplace aggression. https://hbr.org/2024/01/ how-to-intervene-when-you-witness-workplace-aggression)

Together We Can Make a Difference

Preventing workplace violence is a collective effort that requires everyone’s involvement. By collaborating and supporting each other, we can foster a safe and healthy work environment for all. Let’s cultivate a culture of respect and open communication, where everyone feels empowered to speak up if they ever feel threatened or unsafe. Remember, ensuring a safe workplace is a shared responsibility. Together, we can make a difference and prevent workplace violence!

Readvolution Challenge: Ignite Your Reading Passion & Empowering Minds, One Page at a Time!

Click the like button if you’re on board with the Readvolution Challenge! If you’ve read a page, comment below (1 point), and for extra points (up to 2), share your thoughts on how collaboration between different departments plays a part in preventing workplace violence and one way we can foster more respectful interactions between team members. Every like and comment given will contribute to HPC point collection.