In October, domestic violence training became mandatory for Nashville metro employees, and many other states and employers are beginning to offer or already do offer this type of training, too. But should you? First, consider the information outlined below.
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Murders in the Workplace Due to Domestic Violence
Nearly 33% of women killed in U.S. workplaces between 2003 and 2008 were killed by a current or former intimate partner. So, oftentimes, domestic violence does not only affect a worker outside of the workplace.
It will wind up traumatically affecting those inside the workplace—those witnesses and bystanders, including employees who try to interfere with the violence or threats that target an abused or stalked worker.
Essentially, employers who do not address domestic violence outside the workplace may be more likely to experience a workplace shooting, safety concerns, or other violent traumas inside the workplace.
Domestic Violence Affects Productivity
Sixty-four percent of the respondents who identified themselves as victims of domestic violence indicated that their ability to work was affected by the violence they experienced. Ninety-six percent of domestic violence victims, who are employed, experience problems at work due to abuse, and nearly 8 million days of paid work each year are lost due to domestic violence issues, which are equal to more than 32,000 full-time jobs.
If employees don’t know how to properly report instances of abuse or can’t get the help they need in a timely manner, it will affect their performance and ability to function at work on a regular basis.
Domestic Violence Affects Healthcare Costs and Concerns
When employees who are victims of domestic violence need to go to the emergency room or doctor often, healthcare premiums increase along with absenteeism rates. And employees who experience domestic violence may also need to consult with a mental health professional, which will also increase healthcare costs for your organization.
Domestic Violence Will Affect Your Bottom Line
Nine in 10 employees (91%) say that domestic violence has a negative impact on their companies’ bottom lines, while just 43% of corporate executives agree.
However, if your organization is experiencing decreased rates of productivity because of domestic violence, along with increased rates in absenteeism, presenteeism, and healthcare costs, then your bottom line is being negatively impacted.
Overall, domestic violence affects the lives of employees both inside and outside the workplace. And if employers don’t consider implementing domestic violence training, they will likely experience lower rates of productivity, higher healthcare costs, lower bottom lines, and are much more likely to experience a traumatic workplace shooting or violent event.