Personal Safety

Work place violence is a serious threat, and it is on the rise. Work place violence includes:

  • arson 
  • assault
  • murder
  • hostage taking
  • rape
  • robbery
  • stalking
  • threats/intimidation
  • vandalism

Anyone can commit workplace violence. It may be a person at work place outside or inside your organization:

  • an angry employee or customer
  • a bitter ex-employee
  • the jealous partner of an employee

Work together to make your work place more secure

  • Both you and your employer play important roles. Your employer is taking steps to keep you safe at work. You can help by cooperating with these efforts.
  • Prevention is the key to stopping workplace violence. When everyone has a "safety-first" attitude, the threat of violence can be greatly reduced.
  • A safe and secure work place is your right and your responsibility. You can make a difference.

Start by following these security guidelines:

  • Learn your organization's policies
  • Always follow proper procedures
  • Take part in training programs
  • Know what to do in an emergency
  • Stay alert for signs of trouble
  • Trust your instincts in the work place
  • Evaluate and assess a situation before you act
  • Report all incidents
  • Take all threats seriously! Be safe, not sorry.

Watch for warning signs that a person may be losing control:

  • threats, insults, sexual comments
  • unreasonable demands, constant complaining
  • shouting and swearing
  • threatening gestures
  • carrying a weapon
  • having alcohol or other drug usage at the workplace
  • nervous pacing
  • extreme change in appearance and/or mood
  • Not everyone who shows these signs will become violent. However, it's best to stay cautious and alert

Guard Your Personnel Safety

  • Stay Alert, Always be aware of your surroundings. Be careful around people you don't know or who have a history of violence.
  • Don't make yourself an easy target; look confident, carry a minimum amount of cash. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry in public. If you carry a purse, hold it close to your body
  • Vary your routine; vary the times you leave from home and work. Notify your supervisor or security if your working late
  • Travel with someone, if you can. Keep doors locked at all times
  • Always take the safest -NOT the shortest- route home
  • Consider taking a self-defense course
  • Avoid trouble spots; parking in isolated lots, riding elevators alone with a stranger, using poorly-lit stairways and doorways
  • If being followed turn to look at the person-this shows you're alert of your surroundings. Change directions or cross the street. Go to a safe place where there are people, if you are still being followed call the police

Harassing Phone Calls

  • Hang up immediately
  • Keep a record of all calls
  • Report calls to your supervisor or the police