In today’s workplace, we can expect a number of our employees to be using illicit drugs or abusing alcohol. These substance abusing employees will be less productive, late more often, have accidents, steal, and be frequently absent. These drug abusers may also cause violence in the workplace. Employers should look to establishing a drug free workplace.
Today’s Blog (08/27/2015) is dedicated to the fallen WDBJ-TV journalists Alison Parker and Adam Ward. Our prayers and sympathy go out to their families, friends and co-workers. We also wish a speedy recover to Vicki Gardner head of the Smith Mountain Lake Chamber of Commerce. The shooting in Roanoke, Virginia is a terrible tragedy.
Workplace violence is an issue that business owners, executives, HR managers, security managers and safety managers need to address. Any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site is considered workplace violence.
Some tips to help prevent workplace violence include:
- Have firm policies against harassment
- Establish clear codes of conduct, a zero-tolerance policy for workplace violence
- Train workers so that they know what to do in a violent situation
- Always be on the lookout for warning signs
- Take seriously a threat made by an employee and handle
- Provide effective security for your work environment
- Maintain a comprehensive substance abuse prevention policy – a Drug-Free Workplace
Employee use of drugs and alcohol can result in reduced effectiveness at work and an increase in violence. Workers who abuse drugs and alcohol at the worksite increase the risk of engaging in intimidation or violence with co-workers
Make workplace safety a core part of your management strategy and policy planning. Employers do have a responsibility for ensuring the safety of their employees, which includes protection from workplace violence. Preventing workplace violence isn’t always easy, and there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach. Take the time to consider the potential risks at your workplace.
