Addressing Violence in the Workplace A multi-level approach

Transcription

1 SYSTEM ORGANIZATIONAL TEAM INDIVIDUAL Addressing Violence in the Workplace A multi-level approach Here is a multi-level approach that may help to reduce and manage violence in the workplace, and enhance workers safety. While some of the suggestions may not be applicable to every organization, it can be useful to see a variety of strategies to work towards maximizing workplace safety.

2 System Government Advocate for legislation that demands violence-free workplaces with zero tolerance for verbal, physical, emotional or sexual violence, if it does not already exist in your jurisdiction. Review inquest reports regarding workplace violence to learn from the recommendations made. Call on governments and offer to work with governments on developing and implementing multi-sectoral strategies that involve the collaboration of workplaces, the community and government. Research Experts Partner with experts in the workplace violence and mental health field to develop increased knowledge about workplace and occupational-specific violence that may be affecting your workplace. Accreditation Bodies Encourage the accreditation bodies that may be affiliated to your organization to develop and adopt standards about workplace violence. Educators Professional, Union and Regulatory Bodies Provide information and education to staff about the impact of violence in the workplace and on life and relationships. If students are placed at your workplace, ensure they have the opportunity to learn how to respond to workplace violence and keep themselves safe. Ensure staff and students are informed and adhere to workplace health and safety standards and are promptly informed about new standard implementation. Work with your organization s affiliated professional, union and regulatory bodies, where appropriate, to ensure consistent messaging about workplace safety. Collaborate with these organizations to develop and communicate common education and advocacy messages that advance a non-violent workplace mentality. Collaboratively review and respond to the efforts of other organizations/ workplaces to minimize workplace violence and enhance workplace safety. Return to Matrix Organizational Team Individual

3 Organizational Relevant Staff Members Ensure that the organization s direction for workplace safety is reflected and highlighted into corporate and service-specific goals. Develop and implement a workplace violence prevention policy and program that addresses all forms of violence in the workplace; continuously monitor the program. Ensure that disruptive and violent behaviour is addressed in a timely manner Conduct ongoing risk assessments for workplace violence. Provide resources for ongoing and mandatory education in the workplace about workplace violence and safety. Return to Matrix System Team Individual

4 Team Team Leaders and Staff Collaborate with team members to develop team/departmental rules that foster respect and trust. Encourage team members to avoid engaging in activities that can foster anger, mistrust, insecurity and violence. This includes activities such as gossiping, bullying, socially isolating others, pushing, yelling or throwing things. Return to Matrix System Organizational Individual

5 Individual Staff Follow organizational processes that require mandatory reporting of potential workplace violence activities. Support colleagues who may be experiencing violence and encourage those colleagues to come forward. Contribute to the development of organizational policies that aim to eliminate workplace violence and increase workplace health and safety. Return to Matrix System Organizational Team