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Some forms of workplace violence enter from outside the immediate working environment, such as a criminal or domestic violence situations and it is important to understand that domestic violence does not discriminate. It occurs within all age ranges, ethnic backgrounds, economic levels and genders, though domestic violence is predominantly against women.
Although the violence may not occur within your property, the impacts are real. Whether it is harassing phone calls, taking time off due to injuries sustained from a partner, or a decrease in productivity because of this extremely stressful situation, it is critical that domestic abuse be seen as a serious issue. Raising awareness in the workplace is essential.
There are many workplace-specific signs and symptoms that are often a pattern rather than a single indication. These include decreased productivity, tension around receiving repeated personal phone calls, concentration problems, bruises and other bodily pain complaints and even flowers or gifts sent to the employee for no apparent reason.
It’s important to ask the victim what changes could be made to feel safer. Encourage the employee to save any threatening email or voice mail messages. If the employee’s workstation is located near stairs, elevators or public areas, consider moving her to a more private area, and create barriers. Consider priority parking near the front of the building and ask security to escort the individual to and from their car.
If possible, screen phone calls coming through the employee’s line and consider changing her number or removing her name from automated phone directories. Establish pre-arranged exit strategies and consider installing an electronic panic button for the employee and/or receptionist. Contemplate additional security measures and request that the local police regularly patrol your parking area.
Creating a safe workplace for domestic violence victims and all employees is critical. Through planning, education, assistance programs and employee involvement, it can be done. I encourage you to take the first step in getting involved.
About the Author
Geoff Craighead, CPP, past president of ASIS International, is Vice President, Field Training & Development at Allied Universal.
