No one wants to experience workplace violence and many businesses avoid having a policy about how they will address any potential violence in the workplace as a result. I think it’s crucial to have some language in your employee handbook or policies to address this topic so employees know what to expect.

For starters, preventing violence in the workplace is a crucial step for establishing a culture of a safe and healthy work environment for all employees and can improve employee engagement.

Any workplace violence not only has devastating and traumatic consequences for victims but also negatively impacts non-victims who were present or who have an awareness of the incident. In addition to these individual consequences, these incidents can have significant negative impacts on the organization such as loss of key employees, increased turnover, challenges in recruiting, brand reputation, increased legal liabilities, reduced productivity, and reduced profitability.

While physical violence is more likely to be addressed in business policies, verbal abuse and bullying can lead to emotional and psychological harm, causing fear, anxiety, and depression. These types of workplace violence are often not addressed in business policies.

It is important for businesses to have a clear policy on workplace violence and to enforce it consistently. This policy should outline the procedures for reporting incidents, investigating claims, and disciplining perpetrators. This policy should state the business’s intent to provide a workplace culture that values respect, inclusiveness, and zero-tolerance for any form of violence or harassment.

Does your business have a workplace violence policy that addresses these key points? Do you need support with the revision or creation of a policy to address workplace violence?  I would love to partner with your leaders to ensure you have the support needed to meet that goal.

To learn more about how I can help support your business and leaders, please go to www.amybolson.com and/or reach out to schedule a free 30-minute consultation.

You can also find additional resources and news at www.amybolson.com/blog

Artwork by Jan Antonin Kolar