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Hours: 8:30 - 5 CST, M-F
Top 5 Helpline Call Topics:
- FMLA
- Exempt v. Non-Exempt
- Meal and Break Periods
- Final Compensation
- Discipline and Termination
Delighted Clients Speak:
"I am amazed at how quickly I get solutions to my biggest headaches. HR Helpline is able to help me with all of them."
- Sue Manning,
Yoshino Corporation, University Park
"The Chamber HR Helpline is probably one of the most valuable services I've used in my 30+ years in the personnel area."
- Dee Diggs,
Ruckers Candy, Bridgeport |
April 2008 Frequently Asked Questions: preventing workplace violence
Q. What are some steps I can follow as an employer to set up a program to prevent workplace violence and theft?
- Inform employees about your grievance procedures and employee assistance programs. This gives employees the feeling that they can voice a complaint and/or get help with a problem if they need to. Often just feeling like they are heard can prevent an employee from going over the edge and into an act of violence.
- Give your managers adequate training in how to communicate well with those who work for and with them. Managers with poor communication skills can sometimes be seen as bullies or insensitive, and can result in violent reactions from certain employees.
- Develop workplace security policies, including security guards and surveillance equipment where appropriate.
Connect company alarms to the local police department’s alarm system.
- Have well-lighted work areas. Company parking lots should be fenced and well-lighted. Cashiers should be easily seen from the sidewalk or street.
- Ensure all doors and windows have strong locks.
- Require regular deposits of cash to a bank, safe, or vault so that cash registers only have small amounts of money in them at any time.
- Publicize on signs that cashiers do no have access to large amounts of money.
Q. What are some behaviors I should watch for regarding workplace violence?
A. Although one or two of these characteristics does not always mean an employee is potentially violent, these signs should not be ignored:
- Willful violation of company policies.
- A sudden change in behavior, or an employee acting very angry, or having a short temper.
- Threats of violence (should always be taken seriously!)
- Paranoia (thinking everyone is out to get you).
- Obsession with weapons.
Q. What are some events that could set off an employee who may be prone to violence?
- Disciplinary action against the employee
- Workforce reductions (worrying that he might be next)
- Acquisitions or mergers by employers (again, worrying their job is not stable)
- Termination
Q. What are some recommendations that OSHA has for a violence prevention program?
- Management commitment and employee involvement.
- A thorough worksite analysis.
- Hazard prevention and control.
- Safety and health training.
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