During October Security Month don’t forget to Address Workplace Violence

While October is Cybersecurity Awareness month, we at 高知特 Cognizant are also fully aware that security is more than cyber. I recently wrote this article for Cognizant’s internal audience but felt it was worth sharing more broadly.

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Many of us spend a significant portion of our lives in the workplace. It's where we collaborate, create, and contribute to our organizations' success. In today's rapidly evolving professional landscape, ensuring the safety and well-being of our employees has never been more critical. Unfortunately, workplace violence is a reality that can impact any organization, and being prepared is the first and best line of defense.

To ensure a safe and healthy work environment, we believe it's crucial for employees and employers alike to recognize and address the warning signs of workplace violence. Providing awareness on this topic is an essential first step to help our associates identify and then take action to report any incidents they may witness or become aware of.

What is Workplace Violence

Workplace violence refers to any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other harmful behaviors that occur at the workplace. This encompasses a wide range of behaviors, ranging from verbal abuse and harassment to physical assault and even fatal incidents. These behaviors and incidents can be set in motion by various factors, including personal conflicts, stress, underlying mental health issues, organizational tensions, or external factors affecting employees. Finally, workplace violence can occur in any work setting, from offices and factories to schools and healthcare facilities. It not only negatively affects the well-being of employees and can harm an organization's reputation.

Why Identifying Warning Signs Matters

1.??? Prevention: Identifying warning signs allows organizations to take proactive steps to prevent violence before it occurs or escalates. This can include implementing security measures, providing conflict resolution training, and fostering a culture of respect and open communication.

2.??? Safety:?Recognizing warning signs helps employees protect themselves and their colleagues. When employees are trained to identify potential threats, they can respond appropriately, potentially defusing a situation before it escalates. ?

3.??? Legal and Financial Implications:?Failing to address workplace violence can have serious legal and financial consequences for employers. Lawsuits, fines, and increased insurance premiums are just a few of the potential costs. ?

4.??? Employee Well-being:?A safe workplace is essential for the well-being of employees. When employees feel safe, they are more productive, engaged, and likely to stay with the company. ?

5.??? Reputation:?Workplace violence incidents can damage an organization's reputation, making it harder to attract and retain top talent and customers.

Common Warning Signs of Workplace Violence

·????? Changes in Behavior: Sudden, noticeable changes in an individual's behavior, such as increased aggression, withdrawal, or erratic actions. ?

·????? Verbal Threats: Threatening language, including statements about harming oneself or others, should always be taken seriously. ?

·????? Bullying and Harassment: Repeated and aggressive bullying or harassment can be early indicators of potential violence. ?

·????? Intimidation: Acts of intimidation, such as aggressive gestures or menacing behavior, can be warning signs. ?

·????? Conflict Escalation: Escalation of conflicts that should be manageable through normal channels is cause for concern. ?

·????? Obsession or Fixation: An unhealthy fixation on a colleague, supervisor, or the organization itself can be indicative of violent intentions. ?

·????? Access to Weapons: Awareness of an employee's access to weapons, especially if they express a desire to use them at work. ?

·????? Social Isolation: Employees who become socially isolated may be at risk or pose a risk to others.

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Conclusion

Identifying warning signs of workplace violence is not just a good practice; it's a vital skill that can save lives, protect organizations, and preserve the well-being of employees. Integrating this critical training into e-learning programs ensures that all employees have the knowledge and tools to contribute to a safer workplace. By fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, organizations can take significant steps toward preventing workplace violence and creating a more secure and productive work environment.