Safe Work Australia has defined workplace violence and aggression encompass any instance where an individual is subjected to abuse, threats, or physical assault while on the job or engaged in work-related activities.
Workplace violence and aggression can manifest in various forms, including:
Did you know?
Research on workplace bullying and violence details the detrimental impacts on Australian’s and the significant economic and social costs for workers, their family, their organisation and the wider community.
Violence can occur across various industries but is more prevalent in roles that involve interactions with the public.
Industries at higher risk of workplace violence include:
These industries require special attention to ensure the safety and well-being of workers who frequently interact with the public.
Lone workers are employees who operate without direct supervision while performing their duties. They often work in remote areas or engage in one-on-one interactions with members of the public or clients.
Due to their isolated nature, lone workers face increased risks of violence, aggression, or injury, as there may be no immediate assistance available in case of emergency. Certain job roles that involve public-facing responsibilities, such as social care workers, nurses, and security guards, are particularly vulnerable to violence and aggression.
Despite these heightened risks, it is imperative that employers prioritise the safety of those working alone. Employers have a duty to take reasonable measures to mitigate the risks faced by lone workers and ensure they feel adequately protected while performing their duties.
If you are a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), it is your responsibility to fulfill Work Health and Safety duties to protect the health and safety of workers and others by preventing exposure to potential risks, including those posed by acts of violence.
Here are 5 ways to promote workplace safety and minimise the risk of violence.
Establishing robust policies addressing violence, harassment, and bullying is critical. These policies should clearly define unacceptable behaviors, provide guidelines for reporting incidents, and outline disciplinary measures. By adopting a zero-tolerance approach and communicating it to all employees, organisations can foster a culture of respect and safety.
These programs should cover topics like anti-bullying strategies, conflict resolution, mental health awareness, and the different types of violence (e.g., criminal intent, customer/client, worker-on-worker, domestic, and ideological). By educating employees on recognising warning signs, managing conflicts, and promoting a non-violent culture, organisations empower individuals to respond effectively.
Employees should feel comfortable reporting incidents without fear of reprisal. Employers should establish reporting mechanisms that ensure trust, confidentiality, anonymity, and a commitment to prompt resolution. Clearly communicate these reporting procedures to every employee, emphasising their safety as a top priority.
Implementing security measures can significantly deter workplace violence. This includes visitor access management, video surveillance systems, security guards or patrols, entry systems (e.g., key cards, pins), and employee safety tools.
A supportive work environment is key to enhancing employee well-being and minimising the risk of violence. Implementing employee well-being programs and providing resources for mental health support can further contribute to a positive and secure workplace.
Discover our guide for employees working alone. Explore risk assessment, communication strategies, and the role of WorkSafe Guardian in ensuring a secure work environment. Empower your lone workers with actionable tips for working alone safely.
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In this blog, we explore practical strategies to prevent workplace violence and enhance the safety of lone workers. We discuss the importance of clear policies, effective training, transparent reporting procedures, enhanced security measures, and workplace safety culture.
WorkSafe Guardian is an enterprise app-based lone worker safety solution, purpose-built to support at-risk employees. Our 24/7 professional response to safety and medical alerts, plus welfare check-ins, empowers employees to be proactive about their safety. Reduce your organisation's risk with WorkSafe Guardian.
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