Employee Information and Training

Employee training is required upon completion of the WVPP and annually thereafter. Retraining is required any time there is a significant change to the program, a risk factor, or work control. Training topics should include at least the following:

• The workplace violence prevention policy (provide a copy) and where it is kept
• Description and details of the employer’s written Workplace Violence Prevention Program
• Details of the risk factors identified in the risk assessment
• How employees can protect themselves, report threats and incidents, and suggest improvements to the program
• Early recognition of escalating behavior or recognition of warning signs or situations that may lead to assaults
• Training on dealing with and ways to prevent or diffuse volatile situations or aggressive behavior.
• A standard response action plan for violent situations, including the availability of assistance, response to alarm systems, and communication procedures
• How to obtain post-incident crisis counseling
• In general, video or computer-based training alone is not a sufficient method for delivering violence prevention training.
• Policies and procedures for reporting and record-keeping
• Policies and procedures for obtaining medical care, counseling, workers’ compensation, or legal assistance after a violent episode or injury.
• How to initiate an emergency alerting system for imminent danger situations or when staff needs emergency assistance. If you have a high-risk setting, you may want to set up these systems to include personal alarm devices, codes, drop phones, and panic alarms. Assigning and training appropriate personnel to respond is a key component of these systems.