| Preventing workplace violence In response to the recent tragic shootings at plants in Missouri and Mississippi, LifeCare, Inc., one of the largest privately owned employee benefits organisations in the US, has issued a checklist to help businesses prevent and deal with workplace violence. Tips for managers and directors: * Conduct pre-employment background and reference checks. * Be aware of employees who are experiencing high levels of stress or emotional difficulties - traits that can trigger violent behaviour. * Institute and/or promote benefits programmes designed to help employees manage their stress and balance their personal and professional lives. * Provide post-trauma counselling and stress debriefing sessions after any violent incidents. Tips for employees: * Take notice of any changes in an employee's work ethic, personality, behaviour, possibly upsetting situation in his life or newly acquired poor personal hygiene habits, and report any suspicions to a supervisor immediately. * If you suspect a co-worker is in an abusive relationship, take the situation seriously - oftentimes, employees are targeted at the workplace by violent partners. * Avoid potential "danger zones" in the workplace such as isolated or poorly lit areas, which can be conducive to crime. * Investigate safety and self-defence programs offered in your community.
•Date:
16th July 2003 • Region: N.America/Worldwide
•Type: Article •Topic:
BC general
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