Identify Vulnerabilities with a Workplace Violence Risk Assessment
Take proactive steps to protect your team’s wellbeing and safety
What is workplace violence?
Workplace violence refers to any act in which a person is abused, threatened, intimidated, or assaulted in their employment. This includes not only physical attacks but also threatening behaviour, verbal abuse, bullying, or harassment that could cause harm to a worker. In Ontario, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) define workplace violence as the exercise, attempt, or threat of physical force to a worker. Recognizing the full spectrum of workplace violence is crucial for prevention and for fostering a safe and respectful work environment.
What is a workplace violence risk assessment?
A workplace violence risk assessment is a process that helps identify hazards or situations in the workplace that may expose workers to violence. Its main goal is to evaluate the likelihood and potential impact of violence-related risks, considering factors such as the type of work, work environment, and past incidents. The assessment helps employers and workers recognize vulnerabilities and take proactive steps to mitigate or eliminate risks. In Ontario, employers are legally required to assess the risks of workplace violence to ensure the safety of their employees and have workplace violence and harassment programs in place.
Conducting a workplace violence risk assessment
Conducting a workplace violence risk assessment involves several key steps.
- First, review your workplace’s physical layout and daily operations to pinpoint areas or times when workers may be more vulnerable.
- Consult with employees, joint health and safety committees, or health and safety representatives to gather insights from those familiar with the work environment.
- Examine records of past incidents, reports, and trends, and consider external factors such as location or interactions with the public.
- Once risks are identified, evaluate their likelihood and potential consequences.
- Finally, develop and implement control measures, such as policies, training, or environmental changes, and ensure there are regular reviews and updates as workplace conditions evolve.
In Ontario, employers are required to reassess risks to ensure their workplace violence program remains effective and relevant. Regular reviews—annually or when new risks emerge—are essential for maintaining a safe environment and complying with legal obligations.
