Workplace Violence

Threats and incidents of workplace violence are on the rise.  The high profile incidents reported by the media have led to a greater degree of public awareness.  The economic conditions resulting in downsizing and reengineering have contributed to the list of circumstances that lead to incidents of violence in the workplace.

Most of us do not think about being hurt at work through an act of violence.  But for many workers, it's a risk that exists every day.  In fact, violence is on the rise in B.C. workplaces.  Cashiers, receptionists, counsellors, security guards, faculty and teaching assistants are all examples of people who, through the course of their work, might encounter agressive behaviour that crosses into the realm of physical violence or the threat of physical violence.

To address this problem the Workers Compensation Board (WCB) has introduced regulations to help prevent incidents of violence in the workplace.

Simon Fraser University recognizes the right of all employees of the University to work without fear and concern for their personal safety.  The University is committed to the prevention of violence and promotes a violence free environment.  Acts of threats and violence against employees are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.  For additional information on Emergency Response to Threatening Behaviour view GP 25.

What is workplace violence?

As defined in the WCB regulations workplace violence is  "...the attempted or actual exercise by a person, other than a worker, of any physical force so as to cause injury to a worker, and includes any threatening statement or behaviour which gives a worker reasonable cause to believe that the worker is at risk of injury."