Washington — U.S. Postal Service employees who are experiencing domestic violence or feel they have been threatened or are in a potentially unsafe situation with a customer, co-worker, manager or contractor should immediately contact a supervisor, the local threat assessment team and the Postal Inspection Service.
In a recent announcement, the Postal Service reminds workers that its zero-tolerance policy for threats and violence is central to a commitment for a “positive and safe work environment.”
The agency says a threat assessment team is available to respond to all postal locations for reports of threats, assaults and potential violence. Teams are based at agency headquarters in Washington, D.C., as well as at district and area offices.
The teams are trained to assess the danger or harm of threats – whether implied or direct – and reduce risk for workers, discourage inappropriate behavior and resolve conflicts.
Additionally, Postal Service policy includes:
- Distribution of policies and procedures at all Postal Service locations by the end of March every year.
- Permanent posting of policies and procedures on bulletin boards and in other prominent places in facilities.
- Requiring all managers and supervisors to deliver a stand-up talk to workers that ensures they’re aware of how to contact their local threat assessment team.
- Social media use by workers must abide by all Postal Service policies regarding conduct and threats of workplace violence.
In emergency situations, Postal Service workers should contact the 24-hour Postal Inspection Service number at (877) 876-2455 or call 911.
