Workplace violence is a serious occupational hazard, ranking among the top four causes of death in workplaces during the past 15 years. More than 3,000 people died from workplace homicide between 2006 and 2010, according to BLS. In response to these alarming stats, OSHA has issued a directive that establishes uniform procedures for its field staff when responding to incidents and complaints of workplace violence, and conducting inspections in industries considered vulnerable to workplace violence. Studies by NIOSH and other organizations show that employers who implement effective safety measures can reduce the incidence of workplace violence. These measures include training employees, conducting hazard analyses, and encouraging employees to report assaults or threats. Other measures, such as entrance door detectors or buzzer systems in retail establishments, and providing adequately trained staff, alarms and employee “safe rooms” for use during emergencies in healthcare settings, can help minimize risk as well. Check out OSHA’s Web page on preventing workplace violence, as well as its guidance documents, Recommendations for Workplace Violence Prevention Programs in Late-Night Retail Establishments and Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence for Health Care and Social Service Workers.
A Blog From the American Society of Safety Engineers