AUGUST 2006

The shooting that occurred at the Jewish Federation building in Seattle is a sad and scary reminder that violence in the work place does exist.  Although the likelihood of becoming a victim remains low, it is important to be aware of potential risks.

Jobs that entail frequent contact with the public, late hours, or where alcohol is served have higher incidents of workplace violence.  The same may be true of institutions or organizations representing specific ethnic groups or social issues.  If you work in any of these settings, there are personal and environmental ways to protect yourself and co-workers.

Personally

• Say "hello" to everyone who enters or loiters around your building. Verbal contact subconsciously tells a person, "I see you, and so do others."
• Never leave a coworker alone to deal with a problem.  There is safety in numbers.   
• Familiarize yourself with your office phone system.  Do you need an outside line to call 9-1-1?
• Familiarize yourself with all exits in your building.  Use different exits occasionally so you'll know the best route in the event of an emergency.
• You know your office better than the suspect. Find a place to hide and call 911 or leave the building.
• Set a pre-determined location outside the building where everyone is to meet in the event of an emergency.  This will help identify anyone who may still be inside.

Environmentally

• Contact your local police agency.  Many offer security surveys and workplace violence training free of charge.
• Identify problems inherent to the type of service your business provides to determine your level of risk.  If necessary, change the environmental design of your office.
• Limit access to the facility and lock doors that lead to "employee only" areas.
• Use effective lighting both inside and outside the building.
• Consider installing alarm systems, panic buttons, and/or surveillance cameras.
• Practice building evacuations with office staff.
• Have written policies outlining your workplace violence plan and hold employees accountable for its content.

Workplace violence is a complex issue that cannot be thoroughly addressed in a short newspaper article.  Being alert to surroundings and creating a safe environment for office staff will, however, minimize risks.

For further information on workplace violence go to www.osha.gov/workplaceviolence or contact your local police agency.