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Essay / Discussion on the Importance of Workplace Safety
Table of ContentsWorkplace SafetyWorkplace ViolenceEnsuring Employee SafetyConclusionReferences:Workplace SafetyUnsafe conditions in the workplace can arise from many different elements. Some dangers people face every day at work come from fall hazards. When you're on a ladder or on a construction site, you face hazards from power tools and falling debris. Others might face chemical hazards, such as in a laboratory or chemical waste plant. However, in any job, workplace violence can happen anywhere. Violence can come from employee to employee, from employee to supervisor, and from customer/patient to employee. Violence can pose a significant threat in the workplace. “Each year in the United States, approximately 1,000 people die due to workplace violence, and more than 20,000 non-fatal violent incidents result in missed days of work” (Racette K, 2001, p. 329) Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Workplace Violence In a hospital, violence can happen very quickly. Hospitals in 2018 are quite safe. Many hospitals have metal detectors and police officers on standby 24/7. While this is the case in some hospitals, not all have this luxury, and all hospitals have numerous security areas. unrestricted movement for patients and their families. Stress can also play a role in workplace violence. Whether it's an employee stressed out due to family issues or a patient's family member who can't cope with the traumatic crisis in their life, stress can lead anyone to become violent. Another factor that can contribute to violence is drugs. It is common knowledge that a hospital has many medications, and while almost all hospitals keep their medications secure at all times, this does not always deter acts of violence. These are just some of the reasons why violence can occur in a hospital. It can sometimes be very difficult to identify someone who will become violent. Employees who become violent will be easier to identify than patients. Co-workers who become violent will usually see a change in their normal attitude, usually more negative. Some employees may talk about their problems at home and bring them to the workplace. Colleagues who are social most of the time will be quiet; patients who tend to be violent may swear and shout. They may have a clenched jaw, a piercing gaze, and sweat profusely. To protect against violence, hospitals use certain strategies that are not always considered violence prevention. Simple prevention includes the use of metal detectors and security guards. Bag searches can also be used to prevent weapons and drugs. Hospitals are making waiting rooms more spacious and comfortable to prevent patients and their family members from becoming anxious and irritated. People who have to wait in a waiting room with uncomfortable seats and limited space can provoke anger and violence. Hospitals should use employee safe rooms that can be used by employees in the event of an outbreak of violence. Secure rooms must have two, 72(4): 329-342.