Emergency Procedures

Overview

Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It can occur at or outside the workplace and can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide, one of the leading causes of job-related deaths. However it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees nationwide.

Examples of workplace violence include physical assault, stalking or continuous harassment of another causing terror, fear, worry or intimidation; actions aimed at disrupting or sabotaging business operations; or indirect threats such as “I know where you live.

If you are a victim or a witness of workplace violence, notify Building Management immediately.

Protocol

If confronted by a threatening person:

• Leave the area / get out of harm’s way.
• Report the incident to Building Management immediately.

If unable to leave the area:

• Try to stay at a safe distance.
• Try to calm the threatening individual.
• Try to get the attention of a co-worker so they can call Building Management.
• Listen to the individual and let them do most of the talking.
• Use delaying techniques to give the individual the opportunity to calm down.
• Acknowledge the person’s feelings.
• Be respectful and empowering.
• Be reassuring and point out choices.

When speaking to the individual, DO NOT:

• Upset the individual with communication that generates hostility.
• Reject all the person’s demands from the start.
• Use body language or speech that challenges the individual.
• Make sudden movements.
• Belittle, criticize or agitate the person.
• Make false statements or promises.

If injuries occurred or there is imminent danger:

• Contact Building Management with responses to the questions below.
• Are there injuries, and if so, what is the extent of the injury?
• Is a weapon involved?
• Is the attacker still in the area?
• Does the threat still exist?
• A description of the attacker and direction of flight.

If no injuries occurred or there is no imminent danger:

• Contact Building Management immediately.
• Advise your supervisor of the incident.

Please be aware of the following examples of unsettling behavior:

• Irrational beliefs and ideas.
• Fascination with weapons and acts of violence.
• Expressions of a plan to hurt oneself or others.
• Incites fear among coworkers.
• Displays unwarranted anger.
• Inability to take criticism.
• Noted change in usual behavior
• Feelings of being victimized.

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