Workplace Violence

September 18, 2023 Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that benefits employees who are injured or become ill on the job. OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, is a federal agency that oversees workplace safety and health. Workers’ Compensation and Workplace Violence Workplace violence is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for employees and employers alike. Workers’ compensation covers employees injured or killed in workplace violence, regardless of who was at fault. Types of Workplace Violence Claims Covered by Workers’ Compensation Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of workplace violence claims, including: Types of Workplace Violence Claims Not Covered by Workers’ Compensation Workers’ compensation does not cover all workplace violence claims. For example, claims may be denied if the employee was the initial aggressor or if the injury occurred outside the course and scope of employment. Other Risks of Workplace Violence to Employers In addition to workers’ compensation claims, employers who fail to take reasonable steps to prevent workplace violence may also face civil lawsuits from employees and other parties. Preventing Workplace Violence There are a number of things that employers can do to prevent workplace violence, including: What to Do When Workplace Violence Occurs If a workplace violence incident does occur, employers should take the following steps: OSHA’s Role in Workplace Violence Prevention OSHA does not have specific standards for workplace violence prevention. However, OSHA does have measures that can help to prevent workplace violence, such as workplace violence prevention training and hazard assessments. Conclusion Workplace violence is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for employees and employers alike. By taking steps to prevent workplace violence and providing workers’ compensation benefits to injured employees, employers can help protect their workers and their businesses. Resources

September 6, 2023 We’ve all heard the phrase, “Laughter is the best medicine.” Yet, a growing concern among frontline healthcare workers casts a long shadow over their ability to provide care with a smile. The issue? Workplace violence. Though this topic is far from a laughing matter, it’s vital to address it in a manner that balances its seriousness with some much-needed optimism. After all, being informed and prepared is half the battle won. The Rise of Workplace Violence in Healthcare Settings According to a recent Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) study, healthcare professionals are at an elevated risk of experiencing workplace violence. Whether it’s verbal abuse or physical altercations, the threat is very real and affects the entire healthcare ecosystem. It’s not just medical doctors and nurses; even administrative staff, EMTs, and maintenance workers have found themselves receiving violent behavior. This is a concern because it affects the workers and patient care. Why The Concern? When healthcare workers must be on their guard, they cannot entirely focus on patient care. This, in turn, can lead to avoidable mistakes and decreased job satisfaction. Moreover, workplace violence can lead to significant emotional stress, leading to burnout and increased turnover rates. An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure Healthcare workers are already heroes for battling ailments and saving lives; they shouldn’t have to be action movie stars dodging conflicts, too. Employers can take various measures to ensure a safer environment. These could include: The Silver Lining The healthcare industry is aware of these challenges and is actively working towards implementing solutions. Several state legislatures are already considering bills increasing the penalties for assaulting healthcare workers. Technological innovations such as panic buttons, video cameras, and advanced communication systems are also being implemented. Furthermore, medical associations offer stress-management courses to help healthcare workers cope. “First, do no harm” is the cornerstone of healthcare, and it’s high time we ensure this principle works both ways. As we look to the future, we can take comfort in the collective efforts being made to safeguard our frontline healthcare workers. Workplace violence is a critical issue, but by acknowledging it openly and working together to find practical solutions, we’re not just saving the saviors but also ensuring better care for all patients. Let’s tackle this issue head-on so our healthcare heroes can return to spreading smiles, one patient at a time!