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Workplace Violenceand Other Unsafe

Conditions

By Dawn Kitz-Wekerle

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What is Workplace Violence?

• Violence at work occurs when a worker is made to feel unsafe or threatened, or is the target of violent acts.

• Violence includes harassment, verbal threats, abuse, assault and homicide.

• Most violent acts against workers are done by strangers, clients or patients, and not by co-workers.

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VIOLENCE RISK:Working at Night or Early in the Morning

• Convenience Stores

• Fast Food Restaurants

• Late-Night Video / DVD Rental Stores

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WHAT TO DO:Working at Night or Early in the Morning

• Be active and alert

• Make sure outside lights are on and working

• Run an “empty register”, just $5 bills and change

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VIOLENCE RISK:EXCHANGING Money With The Public

•Stores•Restaurants

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WHAT TO DO: EXCHANGING Money With The Public

• Be friendly and briefly look directly at customers

• Keep cash register fund to a minimum

• Make sure work areas are clean, tidy, and well-lit

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VIOLENCE RISK:Working With Patients or Clients Who May Be Violent

• Hospitals• Nursing

Homes• Psychiatric

Centers

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What To Do:Working With Patients or Clients Who May Be Violent

• Learn to recognize signs of potential violence:– Pacing– Restlessness– Clenched Fists– Loud Talking,

Threatening• Get assistance

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VIOLENCE RISK:Working Alone

• Cashiers• Gas Station

Attendants• Home Care

Workers• Taxi Drivers• Sales People• Security

Workers

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What To Do:Working Alone

• Assess the hazards• Do not enter any situation

where you feel unsafe• If attacked, scream — as

loud and long as possible• If someone grabs your

purse or other personal or store property, do not resist and do not chase the thief

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General Safety Procedures

• Know & follow company safety policies/procedures BEFORE you begin work

• ALWAYS report unsafe and violent incidents

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings; report unusual activity

• NEVER take unsafe matters into your own hands