* EC: OSHA & Worker Safety: Guidelines for Zero Tolerance (New OSHA publication helps prevent violence in the health care setting) (PDF/QV) [REF: LD, SFT] EC News, August 2015, Vol 18, #8, Pg 8 JCe1508_B7

Although workplace violence (WPV) is under reported, it is estimated that 70-74% of all assaults reported from 2011 to 3013 occurred in health care and social service settings. And unfortunately, acute psychiatric services and geriatric long term care are among the settings with the highest risk for WPV.   Given this context, it may be useful to be aware of OSHA having updated its Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence for Healthcare and Social Service Workers earlier this year. The update addresses causes, controls and strategies for a prevention program.  Some of the recommendations (e.g., a zero tolerance program that calls for pressing legal charges or transfers patients to other “more appropriate settings” may not fit well with state hospitals that are often the institution of last resort or forensic hospitals working with individuals who are already under charges. Still, this guide contains some of the best, most reliable information about workplace violence available. The sections that focus on hospital settings contain some information that is relevant for psychiatric and forensic facilities.
Tip: Review the series of WPV Checklists starting on page 30 of the guide to
identify research and/or evidence-based risk factors and strategies that can be incorporated into the further development of your culture of safety.
See also: Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Workplace Violence. Jul 2, 2015