How common is workplace violence? Each year, approximately 2 million people in the United States are victims of workplace violence. Workplace violence can be classified indifferent ways, but generally it is an act of violence or disruptive behavior that occurs at a work site.
While some actions are outside of our control, there are preventive measures that your clients can put into place to make the threat of workplace violence less imminent. Here are 3 ways businesses can work to prevent workplace violence.
1. Training and Education
One of the best methods to prevent workplace violence is by providing training and education to employees. While not all workplace violence occurs between employees, it can happen. It is important that your clients know what constitutes workplace violence and how to recognize and react to it. There are many platforms and training programs in place to educate employees on the different types of workplace violence and ways to avoid it. Providing ongoing training throughout the year will help to protect your employees and allow them to feel safer in their workspace.
2. Clear Communication and Protocols
Another way to help prevent workplace violence is by creating clear protocols for reporting incidents and understanding the reporting requirements in your workplace violence coverage. It is important that employees know where to go when an incident occurs or when they witness something. By conducting ongoing risk assessments, your clients will be prepared for violence in the workplace and can help detect early indicators of an incident. Clear protocols not only encourage employees to report incidents but also create a clear sense of accountability. Knowing that communication is clear and encouraged contributes to a positive work environment.
3. Workplace Violence Insurance
Workplace violence coverage won’t stop incidents from happening but can protect your clients in the event of an incident. Coverage can provide support for medical expenses, travel expenses, damages, funeral expenses, bio hazard clean up, temporary employees, PR, crisis management, and other losses resulting from an incident. This coverage can help provide clients with a response for violent situations they may find themselves in.
While most businesses aim to make their workplace environment safe, there are incidents that can occur. Helping your clients prepare and take the steps to protect their business and employees will help create the environment they prefer and deter disruptive behavior. Learn more about the workplace violence coverage from Coterie Insurance and ways it can protect your clients.
