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Although we're all focused on the state of the economy and its impact on our bottom line, we may not have stopped to realize that stresses on our employees could result in increased workplace violence. Workplace murders may not result, but harassment, bullying and other threats could present problems. The articles below may help you put the problem in perspective and help you figure out what to look for and how to prevent it.

The current economy creates stresses that could result in more workplace violence. (Item #1) With proper planning and effective programs, employers can dramatically reduce incidents of workplace violence. (Item #2) Because the courts have held employers liable for protecting employees from known hazards, employers should enact special security measures when their employees bring problems to their attention. (Item #3)

Are you familiar with the 13 early warning signs of workplace violence? (Item #4) Incidents involving disruptions and threats are increasing, and early intervention helps prevent more serious acts. (Item #5) A strong written policy can be a deterrent to workplace violence. (Item #6)

As always, we look forward to hearing about your concerns with regards to business continuity. If you have a topic you'd like to see covered, please email me at [email protected]

Best Regards,

Bob Mellinger
President
Attainium Corp

Quote of the Week

"Threatening behavior, verbal or written threats, harassment, verbal abuse, and physical attacks
are all categories of workplace violence."

- wellergize.ca -

Articles

1. Stress of Weak Economy May Increase Workplace Violence
Incidents of workplace violence could potentially rise as cash-strapped U.S. workers brace for continued layoffs combined with the pressure of trying to provide for their families. The U.S. economic recession and ongoing, significant employment cut-backs have put many workers on-edge, fearing their homes, finances and jobs could be in danger.
http://www.preparis.com/news.php?id=42&date=2008

2. Workplace Violence: An Employer's Guide
Workplace violence seems to have two definitions. The one perpetrated by the media is an armed, disgruntled individual who shoots selectively or indiscriminately at employees, supervisors and managers. Studies have shown, however, that the real threat workers face is more accurately described by the Workplace Violence Research Institute definition: Any act against an employee that creates a hostile work environment and negatively affects the employee, either physically or psychologically.
http://www.workviolence.com/articles/employers_guide.htm

3. Death in the Office-Workplace Homicides
This article focuses on workplace homicides committed by known assailants. It highlights common offender characteristics to help law enforcement apprehend suspects. Finally, it identifies the causes of such crimes, which may prevent them from occurring in the first place.
http://www.workplaceviolence911.com/servlets/wpvDoc?action=display&key=1178

4. The Unlucky 13 - Early Warning Signs of Potential Violence at Work
The National Institute for Prevention of Workplace Violence explains the 13 early warning signs to raise your awareness of the potential for violence.
http://www.workplaceviolence911.com/docs/20081024.pdf

5. Violence Prevention Brochure: Maintaining a Safe Workplace
Workplace safety has become a major concern to managers and employees alike. Media attention has resulted in fear and apprehension, yet violence is less common than is popularly believed. Still, prevention is critical.
http://www.hr.ucdavis.edu/Elr/Er/Violence/Brochure

6. Training and Policy are Key to Preventing Workplace Violence
This article looks at the problem of employee violence and what employers can do to deal with the issue and prevent a potentially devastating event in their workplaces.
http://www.business-marketing.com/store/article-work-violence.html