2025 Pub. 7 Issue 1

Workplace Violence and the Risk to Dealerships The effects of workplace violence are profound, including physical and emotional suffering, destroyed careers and harm to companies and communities. And it comes at a staggering economic price. Although estimates differ, researchers have put the cost of workplace violence at as much as $56 billion annually — and that figure is likely significantly low. No industry is free of violence, but the problem is particularly prevalent in the retail sector. With incidents ranging from verbal abuse to physical assaults, it can have a serious impact on employees, customers and the retailer’s reputation. A poll conducted by Liberty Mutual showed that, on average, for every $1 invested in improving workplace safety, approximately $3 or more is saved. Yet, according to the OSHA, only 30% of businesses currently have formal safety and health programs in place. Given the considerable number of individuals in today’s workforce, this percentage is concerning and highlights the need for improvement. Employers who prioritize safety not only protect their employees but also foster a more productive and engaged workforce. Organizations should take violence prevention and overall safety seriously. Initiative-taking measures are essential to ensuring both the well-being of employees and the long-term success of the company. In a workplace environment such as a dealership, employees regularly interact with individuals who have diverse personalities and working 20 UTAH AUTO DEALER

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTg3NDExNQ==