Aggression in a Homestead or Florida workplace can lead to injuries or at the very least, a toxic environment. Employers have an obligation to provide a reasonably safe environment for employees, and that means having systems in place to prevent anger and violence. Workplaces can do that with these tips:
- Work to create a fair and respectful workplace. Perceived grievances are a common trigger for workplace disagreements and aggression. Have a fair system for raising concerns and getting help. Larger companies can do this with a trained HR department, which can help employees resolve interpersonal issues and get help when they need it.
- Create clear guidelines for aggression. There should be a no-tolerance policy in place which ensures employees do not have to accept aggression from anyone, including clients and other workers. Where possible, try to define aggression precisely and have a system in place for reporting and dealing with upset.
- Screen employees carefully. Some employees are more likely to lash out than others. When hiring, run checks and ask questions about possibly upsetting situations. Can candidates find reasonable and healthy ways to deal with workplace issues? Do they have a history of workplace incidents? Hire for culture and for personality fit as well as job qualifications.
- Work on creating a positive workplace. Host events to build camaraderie and rapport. Have a feedback system so people can voice concerns and ask for support without creating upset. Offer coaching or other systems for help when employees need it. Consider creating a benefits package which offers help for employees so they bring less stress into the workplace.
- Offer training for employees and management. Make sure employees and especially managers are trained to spot instances of trouble and know how to respond. Practice safety systems at work so everyone knows what to do in the event of any emergency. Consider practicing different scenarios; increasingly, many workplaces are holding drills to determine what to do in an active shooter scenario or a violent incident.
- Consider new events and changes in light of workplace safety. If your company is a retail store offering a sale, for example, consider whether the sale might provoke excessive crowds and disagreements between customers. If so, make sure you take steps to keep your workers safe. If you are planning on making personnel changes, make sure you seek professional advice to make the transition smooth and safe for everyone.
- Have the correct security on hand. If needed, consider hiring off-duty police officers or security professionals to keep your work area secure. You may also want to install security systems capable of quick emergency calls if your industry requires panic buttons and quick contact with police in some situations.
If you have been injured by aggression in the workplace and live in Homestead, Hollywood, Miami, or surrounding areas, contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) to find out whether you have legal options. Your first consultation with us is free of charge and comes with no obligation. You owe it to yourself to find out whether you have options for recovering compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.