Domestic Violence
Except when those involved in domestic violence are co-workers, most incidents are perpetrated by non-employees. It is, therefore, unlikely that the levels of violence described earlier will be evident. There will, however, be early warning signs that this type of violence is escalating outside the workplace. The victim may show symptoms such as increased fear, emotional episodes, and/or signs of physical injury. Victims, as well as perpetrators, also show signs of work performance deterioration. By intervening when the early warning signs occur, even though violence may not yet have been committed at work, a serious incident may be prevented.
Response Involving Domestic Violence
In the event the perpetrator shows up at work with the intent of harming the employee and any others who happen to be in the way or involved, follow the procedures described in Level Three in responding to the immediate crisis.
If it is known that an employee is being affected by domestic violence, whether or not the perpetrator has shown up at work, it is important to provide support and assistance. Not only is the person at risk for more and usually escalated violence, but it has an impact on the safety and productivity of the entire work force.
- Talk with the employee about your concern of the possibility of the violence extending into the workplace and recommend that the employee contact the Employee Assistance Program or the Department's resource and referral service, WorkLife4You (formerly LifeCare), for assistance in dealing with the problem.
- Recommend that the employee call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for more information about domestic violence or to help find local resources.
- Contact the Employee Assistance Program for more information and/or assistance, if needed.
- Recommend that a workplace safety plan be developed in case an incident occurs at the workplace. Think about the safety of the individual as well as everyone around her/him. Don't be a hero if the perpetrator shows up at work. Follow the safety plan and go for help.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-6. Increased employee fear, emotional episodes, and deteriorating work performance _____.
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