The old adage on the merits of an offense has been attributed to George Washington and though typically referenced in war and sports, it equally applies to the workplace.
Workplace violence encompasses a range of behaviors from verbal threats and harassment to physical assaults and even homicide. In a global study, nearly 1 in 4 employees reported experiencing at least one form of violence or harassment in the workplace.
Why Do I Need Workplace Violence Training Videos?
In the United States, there are an estimated 2 million victims of workplace violence every year, and in 2020, workplace assaults resulted in 20,050 injuries and 392 fatalities. According to the Violence Project, the most common days for mass shootings are Wednesday and Thursday and the most common month is December.
The exact causes behind violence and shootings in the workplace are difficult to pin down because they are unpredictable, which becomes even more alarming when nearly 80% of companies are unprepared for an active shooter. Over half of employees (55%) claim they are unaware or unsure of their employers’ emergency preparedness plans.
Now more than ever, employees must be able to recognize the warning signs of aggression and know how to safely de-escalate potentially dangerous situations.
Part of having a great offense is utilizing video-based microlearning. Comprehensive workplace violence training videos educate employees and equip them with the skills to prevent violence and create safer work environments.
Recognize the Warning Signs
Workplace violence often stems from unresolved conflicts or stressors that manifest as aggressive behavior. Early recognition of these warning signs is vital in preventing incidents from escalating. Workplace violence training videos can illustrate common indicators like:
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- Verbal Threats: Employees making threatening statements or expressing a desire to harm others.
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- Physical Signs: Clenched fists, aggressive body language or invasion of personal space.
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- Behavioral Changes: Sudden mood swings, increased irritability or withdrawal from social interactions.
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- Performance Issues: Decline in work performance, frequent absences or unexplained tardiness.
Employees can save lives by understanding these signs and taking proactive steps to address potential issues before they escalate.
Bring it Down a Notch
Even with the best preventive measures in place, situations can arise where de-escalation is necessary. Workplace violence training videos should provide practical de-escalation techniques that employees can use to defuse potentially violent situations. Some effective strategies include:
1. Staying Calm
During a conflict, it’s important to appear calm and self-assured, even if you don’t feel that way. Adopt a non-threatening demeanor and keep your tone even. Maintain a neutral facial expression, and position your hands in front of your body in an open, relaxed manner.
2. Listening Actively
Give the person your undivided attention, acknowledging their concerns and feelings of helplessness or frustration. Focus on their emotions, not just the facts. Listening without judgment can ease tension. People respond positively to their own name, so use the person’s name when natural. Move the conversation toward a positive future and offer to collaborate on solving the problem.
3. Using Non-threatening Body Language
Avoid aggressive gestures (including finger pointing) to prevent further escalation. Keep eye contact limited and try to stay at the same eye level as the other person if possible. Refrain from rolling your eyes or shrugging your shoulders. Ground yourself and resist the urge to pace, fidget or shift your weight.
4. Seeking Help
Assess whether it’s necessary to contact law enforcement or emergency medical services. Follow existing protocols for documenting and reporting the incident. Debriefing with managers and talking about what happened with co-workers after the event can help relieve stress and facilitate planning for future incidents.
The Benefits of Implementing Workplace Violence Training Videos
Investing in workplace violence training videos has numerous benefits for both employees and employers. Employees who are trained to recognize and respond to warning signs create a safer work environment. In turn, a safe work environment enables employees to focus on their tasks without the distraction of fear or stress. Proactively addressing workplace violence can also mitigate the risk of legal issues and associated costs.
How to Get Started
Workplace safety is a shared responsibility that requires vigilance, education and a proactive approach. Incorporating workplace violence training videos is a crucial step towards protecting your people and creating a safe work environment.
To learn how you can use workplace violence training videos to secure your workplace, schedule a meeting to speak with a Tyfoom training consultant today. All calls are complimentary and confidential with no commitment required.