Violence in the workplace
Violence in the workplace continues to be among the top causes of death for employees.
It can strike anywhere, though workers most at risk are those who exchange money with the public; deliver passengers, goods or services; work alone or in small groups during late night or early morning hours; or work in settings where they have extensive contact with the public.
Employers are encouraged to take steps to protect vulnerable employees …
- Establish a site-specific workplace violence prevention program.
- Provide safety training for employees so they know what to do if they witness or are subjected to workplace violence. Training should include information on how to de-escalate volatile situations and how workers can protect themselves if de-escalation fails.
- Secure the workplace. Where appropriate to the business, install video surveillance, extra lighting, and alarm systems and minimize access by outsiders through identification badges, electronic keys, and guards.
- Provide drop safes to limit the amount of cash on hand. Keep a minimal amount of cash in registers during evenings and late-night hours.
- Tell employees not to enter any location where they feel unsafe.
Source: OSHA