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Workplace Violence Prevention Program

The purpose of a workplace violence prevention program is to make leaders and staff aware of the potential for violence in the workplace, increase awareness of early warning signs of situations that may turn violent, know how to respond to actual or potential incidents and understand that all claims of workplace violence will be investigated and addressed promptly.

Select your accreditation program to see the requirement related to having a workplace violence prevention program.

Standard LD.03.01.01

Leaders create and maintain a culture of safety and quality throughout the hospital.

EP 9

The hospital has a workplace violence prevention program led by a designated individual and developed by a multidisciplinary team that includes the following:

  • Policies and procedures to prevent and respond to workplace violence.
  • A process to report incidents in order to analyze incidents and trends.
  • A process for follow up and support to victims and witnesses affected by workplace violence, including trauma and psychological counseling, if necessary.
  • Reporting of workplace violence incidents to the governing body.

Standard LD.03.01.01

Leaders create and maintain a culture of safety and quality throughout the organization.

EP 9

LD.03.01.01, EP 9 The organization has a workplace violence prevention program led by a designated individual and developed by a multidisciplinary team that includes the following:

  • Policies and procedures to prevent and respond to workplace violence.
  • A process to report incidents and to analyze incidents and trends.
  • A process for follow-up and support for victims and witnesses affected by workplace violence, including trauma and psychological counseling, if necessary.
  • Reporting of workplace violence incidents to governance.

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Tips and Actionable Strategies

Consider these tips and explore the collection of curated resources, strategies and practices to help you develop a workplace violence prevention plan or strengthen an existing plan.

  • Begin by reflecting on what is already in place, identify then focus on the gaps.
  • Involve staff in the development of the program to empower them and promote ownership.
  • Consider small groups or project teams to work on components of the plan reporting up to leadership.
  • Institute leadership rounding to gain a better understanding of staff day-to-day safety perceptions.
  • Look to your organization’s safety culture survey results to gather insights on staff perceptions of workplace safety.
  • Communicate the program, expectations, results, and actions regularly.