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 styles. Under the pressure of meeting goals and deadlines, conflicts can naturally arise. If employees lack the skills to manage these conflicts effectively, situations can escalate into workplace violence. Additionally, employees in retail operations often encounter abusive customers, which may range from verbally abusive to in rare cases, physical harm. While active shooter incidents in workplaces are statistically rare, they are a serious and sadly growing threat. Being prepared is crucial. POTENTIAL RISKS AND COSTS TO EMPLOYEES When workplace violence occurs, it can bring an organization’s operations to an immediate halt. Employees are often left in shock by the disruption and chaos, unsure whether to intervene or prioritize their own safety. If the violence results in injury, medical insurance claims are likely to follow, and in more severe cases, legal action may be pursued. According to the National Safety Council, the average cost for one small business to mitigate one incident of workplace violence can SCAN THE QR CODE TO LISTEN TO THE AUDIO! https://wvada-news.thenewslinkgroup.org/ workplace-violence-and-the-risk-to-dealerships WVADA NEWS 24
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