A violent workplace is an unsafe workplace. Unfortunately, employers are often not willing to work with the union to attack the problem. Supervisors sometimes laugh off employee requests for a police accompaniment when going alone into a neighborhoods that are so dangerous that even armed police would not enter them alone. Some supervisors discourage employees from filing workers compensation claims or taking time off for violence-related workplace injuries. Some blame the worker for a violent incident.
Some workers blame themselves.
Union Action Talk to workers, conduct a survey. Urge members to document all assault incidents, close calls, and abusive behavior. This data should be reviewed on a regular basis and discussed with management. Keep members informed through the local union newsletter. Develop a plan of Action.