Workplace violence has become a concerning issue that demands immediate attention. According to a report by WorkSafeBC, incidents of workplace violence have increased 25 percent in five years, causing serious implications for employees' safety and well-being.
While many of these incidents happen in health care and social service settings, these are not the only industries at risk. Retail, tourism and hospitality, general construction and other businesses also see high numbers of workplace violence.
As businesses strive to create a productive and secure work environment, it’s crucial to address this alarming trend head-on and implement effective strategies to ensure the protection of all employees.
Here are five strategies to help you enhance employee safety and reduce workplace violence:
1 - Implement Comprehensive Training Programs
An essential step in mitigating workplace violence is to equip employees with the knowledge and skills to identify warning signs and handle potentially dangerous situations.
Conducting comprehensive training programs that cover conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and recognizing behavioural red flags can empower employees to respond effectively to volatile scenarios. These programs should be an integral part of the onboarding process for new employees and conducted regularly as refresher courses for existing staff.
2 - Develop and Communicate Clear Policies
Clarity is key when it comes to policies related to workplace safety and violence prevention. Employers must develop well-defined policies that explicitly outline unacceptable behaviour, consequences for engaging in violence or threats, and the reporting process for any incidents.
Communicating these policies effectively to all employees ensures that everyone understands their rights and responsibilities, fostering a secure and respectful work environment.
3 - Enhance Your Security Measures
Investing in comprehensive security measures is a proactive approach to deter workplace violence. Access control systems, surveillance cameras, and panic buttons can all be invaluable tools in enhancing workplace safety.
Leveraging advanced technology, such as verified audio/video monitoring systems that can detect potential threats in real-time, can provide an added layer of protection and enable swift responses to critical situations.
4 - Foster a Supportive Work Culture
A positive and supportive work culture can go a long way in preventing workplace violence.
Encouraging open communication, teamwork, and empathy among employees helps create an environment where potential issues can be addressed before escalating into violence. Employers should actively promote mental health awareness and provide resources for employees facing personal challenges, reducing the risk of those issues spilling over into the workplace.
5 - Establish an Incident Response Plan
Despite the best preventive efforts, workplace violence incidents may still occur. To ensure a swift and coordinated response, employers should have a well-prepared incident response plan in place. This plan should include immediate steps to ensure the safety of all employees, clear communication protocols, and guidelines for involving law enforcement if necessary.
Regularly testing and updating the response plan will help ensure its effectiveness during emergencies.
Contact Sculpture Hospitality today for a free security assessment of your business.
