Ohio legislation looks to prevent workplace violence in health care settings

Columbus, OH — Legislation recently introduced in the Ohio Statehouse would direct health care employers to develop and implement a workplace violence prevention plan within six months.

H.B. 681, introduced by Rep. Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson), also would require violence prevention and de-escalation training for employees in health care settings, along with volunteers and contracted security personnel. That training would be required no later than 90 days after the implementation of an employer’s plan.

In addition, the bill would direct the Ohio Department of Health to develop a statewide workplace violence reporting system and compile regular statistical reports on all incidents. After employers are made aware of an event, a detailed record would have to be submitted to the state’s director of health within 72 hours. Employers would then have to keep this record for at least five years and make it available for inspection upon request from a state official.

One year after implementation of a workplace violence prevention plan, and every year thereafter, employers would be required to complete a review of the frequency of workplace violence incidents to identify causes, consequences and emerging issues. Based on each review, plans should be adjusted by employers.

“Our doctors and nurses care for us and our families at our most vulnerable moments,” Weinstein said during a recent rally for nurses at the Statehouse. “They give so much of themselves to their patients, and it’s time we show them that we have their backs. Everyone deserves to feel safe in the workplace, and this bill is a step in the right direction.”