Workplace Violence

Springfield, IL – Assaulting a nurse in Illinois will be classified as aggravated battery – a third-degree felony carrying a prison sentence of two to five years – under legislation signed into law Aug. 16.

According to NIOSH, about 1.7 million workers are injured every year in workplace assaults.

Washington – NIOSH on Aug. 12 released a free online course intended to help nurses and other health care professionals recognize and prevent workplace violence.

Washington – The U.S. Park Rangers Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police is calling on the National Park Service to implement a plan that the organization claims will help improve the safety of employees in national parks.

Washington – OSHA needs to issue more regulations that protect health care workers and conduct more inspections of facilities in that industry, according to a report released July 17 by advocacy group Public Citizen.

Austin, TX – Beginning Sept. 1, assaulting emergency department personnel in Texas will be a felony offense under legislation signed into law June 14 by Gov. Rick Perry (R).

A workplace shooting or other violent incident can harm employees and damage morale. What signs should employers look for to recognize potentially dangerous employees, and how should they respond to the threat?

Although OSHA has no standard regarding occupational homicide, it can be a significant risk, especially for workers in what NIOSH deems “high-risk workplaces.” These workplaces include liquor stores, taxicabs, motels, gas stations and jewelry stores.