Even though we work in the anti-violence field, we sometimes overlook the need for workplace violence prevention and intervention plans for our own programs. While agencies may be well aware of the risk of violence from an abuser who is connected to a client, we may not consider the possibility of employee-to-employee violence, risk from someone who is stalking or abusing a staff member, or threats from a worker whose employment is being terminated.
Managers could use the following questions (at a staff meeting, for example) to open up a conversation about workplace violence. Consider taking the online Domestic and Sexual Violence in the Workplace Quiz as a group to stimulate discussion. If your program has a Safety Committee, they could assist you in addressing this issue.