Employment Law Tip: Addressing Domestic Violence in the Workplace

Domestic violence affects more than 32 million Americans each year, with more than 2 million injuries and approximately 1,300 deaths. As the scope of the problem underscores, domestic violence isn’t just a personal issue, but one that spills over into the workplace as well, affecting both men and women. What can employers do to help protect victims and maintain a safe workplace? Here are some suggestions:

1. Educate employees about the causes of domestic violence.
2. Train managers to recognize signs of domestic abuse.
3. Respond quickly with appropriate security measures if violence at the workplace may be unfolding.
4. Refer victims to your EAP program.
5. Try to be flexible if a domestic violence victim is struggling with performance or attendance issues.

7 Steps for Preventing Workplace Violence

A survey by the Society for Human Resource Management reveals that more than half the companies in the United States have experienced some form of workplace violence.

Learn how to protect your workplace with our free White Paper, 7 Steps for Preventing Workplace Violence.

Additional Resources:

Family Violence Prevention Fund

Violence in the Workplace: Six Important Tips to Address Domestic Violence and Keep Your Workplace Safe

Defuse the Violence: Protect Your Workforce—And Your Company An Exclusive Employer Guide from the Employer Resource Institute