July 2002
Workplace Violence
Violence in the workplace during the 1990's reached such proportions that it was deemed by various governmental agencies concerned with public health as an "epidemic." Workplace violence began rising in 1990 and by the end of 1991 workplace violence had surpassed machine related deaths as a cause of fatalities in the workplace. Today it is the second leading cause of work-related deaths for men and the LEADING cause for women according to the U.S. department of labor.
Workplace violence, generally speaking, includes any behavior that threatens or harms a business's employee or employees or property. This violence can be initiated by anyone--the employee, stranger, customer, client, family members or acquaintances. Violence can come in the forms of veiled and direct threats, fatal and non-fatal assaults, stalking and harassment or any form of physical or emotional intimidation and any other inappropriate behavior that creates a concern for safety. To properly assess your level of risk, all possibilities must be considered.
Domestic violence can also play a role in workplace violence. Domestic violence affects workplace safety at both ends of an abusive relationship; turning a "personal issue" into a pressing concern for organizations. Seventy-five percent of battered women who responded to one survey reported being harassed at work by their abusers, either in person or by telephone. More than 50% of battered working women reported missing three days of work per month due to abuse, according to the U.S. department of Labor.
What are the costs of workplace violence? Much more than just the mental or physical distress for the employer and employee, it creates a desire for the harassed employee to change jobs, thus creating more employee turnover. It also creates increased use of mental health and healthcare benefits, absenteeism and ultimately a loss of employees.
All is not lost however. The good news is that this problem can be positively impacted. Prevention of workplace violence IS an attainable goal and one in which each organization can exercise a great deal of control.
On July 25th, The Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce will bring to you a workshop of importance on Workplace Violence from 8:00 AM to noon at Christo's. You will learn how to define workplace violence, identify risk factors for workplace violence, how to intervene and how you can prevent workplace violence. Call the Chamber (574-936-2323) today to make your reservations.
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