Fostering a culture of safety shouldn’t be a catchphrase—it should be a priority for organizations of all sizes.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), acts of violence are the third-leading cause of workplace fatalities in the United States. The report states that in 2019, there were 5,333 fatal injuries in the workplace, 761 of them intentionally caused by another person.
These numbers only solidify the critical responsibility of directors, officers, and other corporate leaders in preventing workplace violence. As of July 1, 2024, Senate Bill (SB) No. 553 mandates that all California employers implement a comprehensive workplace violence prevention plan. With other states potentially following suit, businesses must be as prepared as possible.
As management liability risks evolve, so must the risk mitigation strategies for workplace violence. Fostering a safe and supportive work environment allows businesses to protect their most valuable asset—their people.
Here are 7 actionable strategies for preventing workplace violence:
Clear and comprehensive policies are the foundation of effective workplace violence prevention. These policies define what constitutes workplace violence, including physical assault, threats, harassment, and intimidation, and outline the procedures for reporting incidents, the consequences for perpetrators, and the support available for victims.
Steps to establish these policies and procedures:
Workplaces with a positive culture of inclusion and respect considerably reduces the risk of violence. Management should lead by example, demonstrating respectful behavior and zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment, and encourage open communication and forums for employees to voice concerns.
Ways to cultivate an inclusive and respectful culture:
Periodic risk assessments are essential for recognizing potential threats and vulnerabilities in the workplace. These assessments evaluate physical security measures and consider the workplace environment, including any factors contributing to employee stress or conflict.
Methods for performing regular risk assessments:
Training is essential to any workplace violence prevention strategy. Employees need training on recognizing warning signs of violence, de-escalation techniques, and responding to incidents. Support systems, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), offer confidential counseling and support for employees dealing with stress, mental health issues, burnout, or personal problems.
Approaches to deliver training and support:
Establishing clear, confidential reporting channels, such as a hotline or online system, is essential. A well-defined response protocol ensures management responds promptly and effectively to all reports of violence.
Ways to create reporting and response protocols:
Engaging with external experts can enhance an organization's ability to prevent workplace violence. Security consultants provide valuable insights into physical security measures, mental health professionals offer guidance on supporting employees, and local law enforcement agencies provide training and resources for preparing and responding to violent incidents.
Methods to collaborate with external resources:
Ensuring employees maintain a healthy work-life balance is an effective strategy for reducing stress and preventing workplace violence. Employees who are stressed and overworked are more likely to experience frustration and anger, potentially escalating into aggressive behavior.
Opportunities to promote work-life balance:
Preventing workplace violence is an ongoing process and commitment from every facet of an organization. By implementing these strategies, businesses can create safe spaces for their employees. In doing so, they protect their workforce and strengthen their overall management liability strategy, ensuring a more secure and productive work environment.
Partnering with Flow Specialty means fortifying your ability to face these challenges directly with customized solutions and invaluable insights for management teams. Leveraging access to both admitted and non-admitted markets in key states, we offer flexible primary and excess coverage options to cater to diverse needs. Our quick quoting abilities and extensive market options guarantee seamless and efficient coverage. You’ll receive proposals ready for clients and expert guidance to boost clarity and confidence in liability risk management. Flow's AI-driven tools and streamlined automation simplify policy procurement, backed by personalized attention for effective liability management and client satisfaction.
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