When it comes to safeguarding the workplace, there is always a focus on equipment hazards, slips and accidents, but prevention of violence is no different. This risk is not always apparent. It may go through signs and symptoms, low communication, poor access control or no sense of security within the workplace network to report concerns.
The best workplace violence prevention strategies for companies are not hard to do, but they must be consistent.
Why Prevention Needs a Real Strategy
Businesses using a risk management approach to the issue of workplace violence will have an easier time working with the problem rather than trying to manage a single event. A good plan is directed towards minimising opportunities, identifying concerns early and ensuring that employees are aware of the actions to take.
The goal is early intervention
Most serious incidents are preceded by behavior which can be identified if managers and staff are trained to identify it. This is why preventing it is best if people understand what to watch for and what to do afterwards.
Build Clear Reporting Channels
Simple and safe reporting means more employees will speak up. People might feel like they or their structures will be ignored or blamed and, therefore, maintain a silent presence until things get worse.
Make reporting easy and private
An effective reporting system will enable staff to report concerns on matters pertaining to:
- Threatening behavior
- Harassment or intimidation
- Domestic issues that may affect the workplace
- Aggressive customers or visitors
- Repeated rule violations or escalating conflict
Quick and consistent handling of items is the key to building confidence in the system among employees.
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Train Managers and Staff to Spot Warning Signs
Training must be hands-on, not hands-off. People must learn how to identify behaviors that can indicate an elevated risk like being angry out of proportion, fixating on someone or grievance, stalking, or persistent verbal threats.
Focus on behavior, not assumptions
It’s not about marking people off a list. It is to be able to recognise risky behaviour which can be addressed proactively and professionally.
Strengthen Physical Security Measures
Security measures, even if they are not visible, help even a quiet work environment. Access management, visitor procedures, lighting and controlled entry points all make it more difficult for the problem to get out of hand.
Simple measures can include:
- Badge-only access to restricted areas
- Visitor sign-in procedures
- Secure parking and entry points
- Good lighting around entrances
- Surveillance in high-risk or low-visibility areas
Support a Respectful Workplace Culture
Security is not limited to locks and cameras. It also relies on the daily surroundings. Conflicts, lack of communication, unmanaged stress will only exacerbate the situation.
Build a culture where concerns are taken seriously
Managers should be trained to defuse conflict situations, utilize forms to record conflict and follow the policy rather than improvise. Workers feel and experience respect and accountabilities are valued, which can reduce risk.
Have a Response Plan Ready
A prevention strategy should also incorporate a means of responding to a threat, disruption, or aggressive response. That should be part of a plan, detailing who responds, how to secure the area, when to call the police and support employees who have been impacted after.
A strong response plan isn’t a fear thing. It is a matter of readiness.
Final Thoughts
The best workplace violence prevention strategies for companies are those that encompass
- awareness
- Reporting
- Training
- physical measures
- company culture
It is important to remember that no single measure is sufficient by itself, but when combined, they work to make a safer, more stable workplace.
Organizations that invest in prevention are not just mitigating risk. They are making employees realize that they are valued and their concerns are being listened to and unfortunately they are being left to be cared for.
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