Somewhere beyond the dramatic statistics, creative business leaders are learning how to manage the impact of workplace violence.
There is no simple answer, but you can use new ideas to sustain a successful organization. The key? Commit to awareness, listening and creative problem solving.
It’s been reported that there are about 13 workplace murders every week and an estimated 1 million workplace assaults every year. A 1999 survey of human resources professionals reveals that 57 percent of business owners have dealt with at least one violent workplace incident in the recent past.
According to a 1998 U.S. Department of Justice report on workplace violence, in each year between 1992 and 1996, more than 2 million U.S. residents were victims of a violent crime while at work or on duty.
But there is hope.
According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics figures, workplace homicides decreased significantly from 1993 to 1998 — from 1,074 to 709. Among efforts that have helped: corporate zero tolerance policies, conflict resolution training and tip lines.
Workplace violence can affect all types of organizations. While the disgruntled former employee who returns to work with firearms has captured popular attention, this is only one relatively rare scenario. In some settings, violence can be caused by outside criminals or enraged customers.
Depending on the location and nature of your business and employees, you may need to address some of the following: homicide, threats, assaults, rape, sabotage (physical/virtual), vandalism, terrorism, kidnapping/torture and external relationship spillover (domestic violence, attacks on other offices in the same building).
How can you address this issue without being overwhelmed? Through education, planning, collaborative conversations and networking with other businesses, experts and your community. Ignorance is not an option.
Always seek the advice of professionals, particularly security, legal and human resources staff and/or advisers, as you implement your prevention and response plans. The D.E.F.U.S.E. model can help identify aspects of workplace violence:
Disarm. Remove possible weapons (for example, scissors on counter tops) and engage safely, calmly and respectfully with others.
Educate. Train staff and managers in conflict resolution, security procedures, communication, negotiation and creative problem solving.
Focus. Clearly identify and plan for prevention and crisis response with various staff and departments, especially community/public relations.
Understand. Conduct an organizational assessment and research best practices, limits, resources, concerns and experiences.
Secure. Co-create systems and avoid abuse for physical plant safety and video surveillance.
Empower. Move beyond fear to inspire hope and awareness in your co-workers and community. Actively participate in nonwork efforts for peace through public statements, encouraging employee volunteer activities and recognizing (through awards, gifts and scholarships) successful efforts for promoting nonviolence in your schools and community.
As you develop your plan, remember the following:
- Consider a human resources screening tool. There may be issues of liability, test accuracy and discrimination.
- No approach is guaranteed. Acts of violence can happen despite your best efforts, but a prepared organization is best equipped to effectively and promptly handle any crises that may occur.
- Threats, concerns and incidents may be symptoms of deeper organizational problems beyond the scope of your business. Be open to listening for possible problems that may be causing frustration that could erupt into violence.
- Take all threats seriously.
- Document, document, document. This includes policies, incidents of threats and violence, resources within and outside the organization and results of actions.
While workplace violence can generate fear, remember that you have many resources at your command in the modern workplace. The resilience and innovation of your employees can be encouraging sources of successful strategies.
Work with them to show your concern and commitment to their safety. Together, you can help defuse violence and create safe businesses and communities. Todd Packer ([email protected]) is an independent consultant providing research, writing and training in organizational development, creative problem-solving and stress management. Contact him at (216) 752-6926.
