Workplace violence is a serious recognized occupational hazard, ranking among the top four causes of death in workplaces during the past 15 years. More than 3,000 people died from workplace homicide between 2006 and 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) blogdumps. Additional BLS data indicate that an average of more than 15,000 nonfatal workplace injury cases were reported annually during that time period.

Because employers, employees, victims’ advocates, union activists, and the U.S. Government have worked collaboratively for almost two decades to take precautions to protect workers, workplace homicides have decreased over 50% since the early 90’s and similar progress has been made in reducing nonfatal injuries due to workplace violence by 75% single curtain track bracket.

Unfortunately, we are experiencing a recent onslaught of homicides, many affecting schools. These incidents are startling and traumatic, to say the least. The killing of 20 children and 6 adults at Sandy Hook Elementary School shocked the nation into seeking solutions to gun violence. And, as we know, the President of the United States proposed closing background check loopholes to keep guns out of dangerous hands; banning military-style assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, and taking other steps to reduce gun violence; making schools safer; and increasing access to mental health services.

”These incidents and others like them can be avoided or decreased if employers take appropriate precautions to protect their workers,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels maggie sottero effie. "We have accompanied this directive with a new web page on Preventing Workplace Violence to help employers address workplace violence issues.” Website link www.osha.gov.

Workplace Violence Awareness Month

With awareness and attentiveness -- and by paying homage and respect to workers who have died while at work -- we can all help halt this nationwide danger. The Alliance Against Workplace selected this month as Workplace Violence Awareness Month because Workers Memorial Day is observed on April 28. This month, and throughout the year, you are encouraged to take actions that will assist the Alliance in getting the word out to interested persons that workplace violence, bullying and other dangerous conflicts can be prevented. We must be vigilant year-round!

Everyone, nationwide, is encouraged to help educate the public about this problem that is generally considered a police issue or as unavoidable Tiffany jewelry. We believe that if more people understand what workplace violence is, and what preventive measures can be utilized to halt it, they will take the necessary steps to make their workplaces safer.

Alliance Against Workplace Violence

The problem of workplace violence is not a separate issue from the other problems of violence that plague our society. We realize that violence in homes and communities often spills over into the workplace. The Alliance Against Workplace Violence was created to generate discussion and ideas about preventing violence in the workplace among those who are already working diligently in this area and to include persons in the community who may be unaware of the problem. Consultants and practitioners in workplace violence prevention have joined in a collaborative effort to bring information to schools, churches, community associations, chambers of commerce, and violence prevention organizations.

This month of observance is a time to draw ongoing attention to not only the problem of workplace violence but to possible solutions. Many companies already provide workplace violence prevention, education, intervention, and other similar services in this area. But more workplaces, workplace consultants, managers and employees must be made aware and become involved.

The Alliance published its first book Halt the Violence. This book provides a roadmap for employers to utilize in halting workplace violence. Alliance members are available to assist employers and communities in workplace violence education and prevention.

This year AAWPV is also creating an online directory of professionals working in violence prevention, including the workplace and the community. We believe that the problem must be addressed comprehensively in order to be effective, and we urge each of you to post words of support for Workplace Violence Awareness Month. You may also be listed in our online directory and/or purchase advertising on the site to inform others of the services that you offer. Please work diligently within your local communities to increase public awareness of this problem and its solutions. You could save a life of someone you love.

In recognition of Workplace Violence Awareness Month, we are creating a wall to remember those who have died due to Workplace Violence. If you have been a victim of workplace violence and/or bullying, The Alliance would also like to hear your story epoost.