Employers are being urged to prepare management plans to prevent violence in the workplace.
Productivity and Labour Relations Minister Yvonne Henderson today released a brochure on violence in the workplace, providing a management plan including information on how to identify, assess and control potentially violent situations.
Suggestions for managing violent incidents include:
· limiting the opportunity for violence by improving cash-handling procedures and rostering experienced staff and providing more staff at peak periods;
· training employees to identify potentially violent situations and to take appropriate action;
· changing the work environment such as redesigning waiting areas to provide welcoming and calming surroundings, installing security lighting and protective barriers, improving surveillance and reducing irritating background noise;
· providing additional personal protection such as personal alarms or self-defence training.
Mrs Henderson said that violence in the workplace should be recognised as a hazard, and preventative measures taken to protect employees and others.
"Violence at work - including physical assault, verbal abuse, threats and intimidation - can occur in almost any workplace, and can happen suddenly and without notice or provocation," she said.
"Employees who deal with members of the public are likely to be exposed to verbal abuse, threats and intimidation.
"At highest risk are nurses, social workers, security personnel and prison officers. Others, such as bank officers and pharmacy workers, are under threat of robbery.
"Violence can result in physical and mental pain and suffering, permanent disability or even death, and can be a huge burden on the families of victims.
"Employers also pay a price through absenteeism, lost productivity, increased workers' compensation premiums and medical expenses."
The brochure on violence can be obtained free of charge by telephoning the Department of Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare on 327 8777.
