Toolbox Talk: Workplace violence
We all deserve to work in a safe environment. Unfortunately, there are situations where violence is present in the workplace.
Introduction
Workplace violence can occur at, in, or outside the workplace and can be triggered by stress, increased workloads, financial problems, or disciplinary action.
Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence. Workplace violence is encountered across many New Zealand workplaces. It can occur randomly, without any perceived aggravation, and may cause mental and physical pain and suffering to the victim.
Workplace violence applies to an incident were someone is abused, threatened or assaulted in circumstances arising during the course of their work and may also involve external sources, such as members of the public or clients.
Workplace violence has an effect on everyone:
Worker
- Lower productivity
- Lower self esteem
- Poor mental health
- Physical pain
- Absenteeism
- Suicide
Business/Organisation
- Low staff morale
- Poor reputation for the organisation
- Difficult to recruit or keep staff
- Financial losses, absenteeism, lost productivity
The recommended approach to managing workplace violence is to eliminate the opportunity for violent behaviour to occur. Follow the I AM safe steps to minimise the threat of workplace violence on your site.
IDENTIFY where violence could happen
Recognise potentially violent behaviour. The following are some of the indicators that can signal the potential risk of a violent episode:
- Sudden and persistent complaining about being treated unfairly.
- Blaming other for personal problems.
- Sudden change in behaviour.
- Deterioration in job performance.
- Threatening or paranoid behaviour.
- Increased absenteeism from work.
- Alcohol and/or drug use.
- Family or financial problems.
- Poor relationships with co-workers and management.
- Sudden mood swings, depression.
Quick fact
All businesses or organisations have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 to eliminate risks to health and safety, as far as is reasonably practicable - this includes violence.
ASSESS plans for responding to and reporting potential or actual incidents of violence
Develop plans for responding to and reporting any potential or actual incidents of violence.
Keep detailed records of all incidents. Categorise incidents by time, place, who and type of violence.
Grouping incidents based on similar features will help to identify violence triggers. Make sure managers are available to all those on site who may want to raise any potential workplace violence issues.
Quick fact
Verbal abuse and threats are the most common type of violence at Work, with physical attacks being relatively rare in New Zealand workplaces.
MANAGE worker wellbeing
If violence has been an issue on site, you could:
- Develop a zero-tolerance policy to deal with violence.
- Provide staff with information on how to deal with potentially violent situations.
- Informally ask staff if they feel violence is present on their site.
- Ensure all sectors of the business are consulted, as teams may have differing views.
- Ensure staff feel supported and know what to do in a potentially violent situation.
- Provide people with training to deal with violence.
- Provide security on site if required.
- Regularly monitor the situation noting the effects of changes and any remaining problems.
- Remember to have regular conversations with the team/s on site to make sure they feel supported.
- Consider staff surveys and exit interviews.
Tips to help prevent workplace violence
Some basic planning and preparation strategies can minimise or avoid violent situations in the workplace. Here are some tips to stay safe.
- Never underestimate the potential for violence and take every threat seriously.
- Create a supportive environment where violence and disrespectful behaviour are not tolerated.
- Resolve conflict peacefully, recognise signs of a troubled coworker, or a disgruntled worker, visitor, or client.
- Encourage open, honest and confidential communication with your team.
- Have a workplace violence policy and appropriate procedures in place and ensure everyone is aware of them.