We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

720 Preventing Workplace Violence
Skip to main content

Supervisory Training

Employers will benefit from training on workplace violence as part of general supervisory training, some conduct separate training sessions on workplace violence, and some include it in crisis management training.

Small Business, Big Impact: Violence and Harassment

Whichever approach is taken, supervisory leadership training should cover:

  • ways to encourage employees to report incidents in which they feel threatened for any reason by anyone inside or outside the organization
  • skills in behaving compassionately and supportively towards employees who report incidents
  • skills in taking disciplinary actions
  • basic skills in handling crisis situations
  • basic emergency procedures
  • how to ensure appropriate screening of pre-employment references has been done.

Special attention should be paid to supervisory training in management skills. The same approaches that create a healthy, productive workplace can also help prevent potentially violent situations. It is important that supervisory training include basic management skills such as:

  • setting clear standards
  • addressing employee problems promptly
  • probationary periods
  • performance counseling
  • administering disciplinary procedures

These interventions can keep difficult situations from turning into major problems. Supervisors don't need to be experts on violent behavior; what is needed is a willingness to seek advice from the experts.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

4-4. Supervisor VPP training should emphasize encouraging employees to report incidents in which they feel _____.