Protection Against Workplace Violence
When you think of the most common types of work-related injuries, “violence” probably doesn’t come to mind.
However, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) says that roughly 2 million American workers are victims of on-the-job violence each year. Some of these cases are minor, resulting in nothing more than verbal arguments, but others are more severe, sometimes even fatal.
As an employer, it’s your responsibility to protect workers from violent acts, which is something that we’re going to discuss in today’s post.
So How Do You Reduce the Chances of Workplace Violence?
Video Surveillance
Video surveillance systems have been shown to have a positive impact on reducing rates of workplace violence. For starters, most criminals don’t want their face captured on camera, as this increases the chance of them being caught and brought to justice.
Secondly, video surveillance systems allow employers and managers to keep an eye on their facilities, looking for signs of suspicious activity. If someone is seen on video carrying a weapon towards the facility, the employer can lock the doors and call the police. Video surveillance can also reduce the likelihood of fights and sexual harassment between employees.
Access Controls
The use of access control systems may also prove useful in protecting workers from violent acts.
What exactly is an access control system and how can it help? One example of such system is a card or biometric reader on a locked door. To enter the facility or secure area, employees must slide their card into the reader or place their hand or fingers on a biometric scanner. If they don’t have a card or correct fingerprints, they won’t be able to enter.
Many businesses have begun to invest in access control systems, as it ensures a safe working environment in which only authorized workers and individuals are allowed to enter.
Enhanced Lighting
Another helpful tip to protect against workplace violence is to increase the lighting around your workplace. Installing a series of motion-activated floodlights around the exterior of your facility will make it more difficult for someone to sneak in undetected.
Whenever someone approaches, the floodlights will illuminate the area, alerting security guards or a passing police car. Well-lit parking lots and garages make it less likely an employee will be attacked while walking to his or her car.
Panic Buttons and Communication Systems
Having easily accessible panic button consoles and communication systems such as public address and intercoms can also be very effective if violence is about to or already taking place. Employees and visitors can be alerted immediately to exit or take cover, or if stranded somewhere, they can communicate.
Establish a Zero-Tolerance Policy Towards Violence
In its Workplace Violence Fact Sheet, OSHA says the best protection against workplace violence is the establishment of a zero-tolerance policy. Employers should create a detailed policy regarding workplace violence, reminding workers that all claims will be investigated promptly. This policy should also include safety information, as well as tips on how to protect themselves against violent acts.
These are just a few things that employers should keep in mind when assessing the potential risks of violence in their workplace.
Image attribution: https://www.flickr.com/photos/tattoodjay/
