How To Deal With Physical Abuse In The Workplace

 

Physical abuse in the workplace is a serious issue that can have a profound impact on both the victim and the organisation. It is important to know how to recognise and deal with physical abuse in the workplace to create a safe and healthy work environment for everyone. 

1. Recognise the signs of physical abuse: Some of the signs of physical abuse in the workplace include bruises, cuts, broken bones, or any other physical injuries. Other signs may include fear or anxiety when around certain individuals, changes in behaviour or work performance, and reluctance to come to work or participate in certain activities. 
2. Report the abuse: If you or someone you know is experiencing physical abuse in the workplace, it is important to report it to the proper authorities. This may include your supervisor, human resources, or the police. Be sure to document any incidents of abuse, including dates, times, and a detailed description of what occurred. 
3. Seek support: If you are a victim of physical abuse in the workplace, it is important to seek support from friends, family, and professionals. This may include talking to a counsellor or therapist, joining a support group, or reaching out to organisations that specialise in helping victims of abuse. 
4. Create a safety plan: If you fear for your safety, it’s important to create a safety plan. This plan should include steps to stay safe, such as avoiding certain areas of the workplace or arranging for a ride home. It may also include emergency contact information and a list of people to call if you feel unsafe. 
5. Address the root cause: To prevent physical abuse from happening again, it is important to address the root cause of the abuse. This may involve changes in the workplace culture, implementing policies and procedures to protect employees, or providing training to employees on how to recognise and prevent abuse. 

In conclusion, physical abuse in the workplace is a serious issue that should not be taken lightly. It is important to recognise the signs of abuse, report it to the proper authorities, seek support, create a safety plan, and address the root cause of the abuse. By taking these steps, we can work together to create a safe and healthy work environment for all employees. 

This blog post was originally published here.