If you're like most people, you spend more time at work than away from it.
That makes it very important to feel safe when you're there.
Unfortunately though, the workplace is a hostile environment for some.
In this week's Safety Alert, Washington's Most Wanted's Myrle Carner and King County Sheriff's Office Spokesperson John Urquhart goes over what your employer needs to have in palce to make sure you don't become a victim.
There are many forms of workplace violence: anything from a raised voice to a homicide.
To prevent violence, the first step is to ask yourself several questions: If you work in an office, is it secure?
Ideally, you have an easy to use phone system, sign-in policies for visitors, panic buttons, safe rooms, security guards, good lighting and safety training.
Are all of your co-workers trained on security procedures? Are you encouraged to report unusual behavior?
Is there a written policy that spells out procedures in case of violence and sanctions for violators?
Are there procedures in place to report sexual harassment? Is it clear that violators will be punished and victims will not?
If the answer to these questions are know, you should approach someone in the Personnel Department with your concerns.
Employers are liable for harm that comes to you while you're at work, so most of them want to lower risks.
If your employer doesn't, take action. You might want to consider looking for another job.
The prevalence of workplace violence happens in all kinds of businesses. If you practice today's tips, you will greatly lessen the opportunity for having workplace violence.
That makes it very important to feel safe when you're there.
Unfortunately though, the workplace is a hostile environment for some.
In this week's Safety Alert, Washington's Most Wanted's Myrle Carner and King County Sheriff's Office Spokesperson John Urquhart goes over what your employer needs to have in palce to make sure you don't become a victim.
There are many forms of workplace violence: anything from a raised voice to a homicide.
To prevent violence, the first step is to ask yourself several questions: If you work in an office, is it secure?
Ideally, you have an easy to use phone system, sign-in policies for visitors, panic buttons, safe rooms, security guards, good lighting and safety training.
Are all of your co-workers trained on security procedures? Are you encouraged to report unusual behavior?
Is there a written policy that spells out procedures in case of violence and sanctions for violators?
Are there procedures in place to report sexual harassment? Is it clear that violators will be punished and victims will not?
If the answer to these questions are know, you should approach someone in the Personnel Department with your concerns.
Employers are liable for harm that comes to you while you're at work, so most of them want to lower risks.
If your employer doesn't, take action. You might want to consider looking for another job.
The prevalence of workplace violence happens in all kinds of businesses. If you practice today's tips, you will greatly lessen the opportunity for having workplace violence.
