Post-Incident Response

Post-incident response and evaluation are important parts of an effective WVPP. This involves developing standard operating procedures for management and employees to follow in the aftermath of a violent incident. Such procedures may include the following:

• Assure that injured employees receive prompt and appropriate medical care (This includes but is not limited to providing transportation of the injured to medical care. Prompt first aid and emergency medical treatment can minimize the harmful consequences of a violent incident.)
• Report the incident to the appropriate authorities as required by applicable laws and regulations
• Inform management about the incident in writing
• Secure premises to safeguard evidence and reduce distractions during the post-incident response process
• Prepare an incident report immediately after the incident, noting details that might be forgotten over time (Appendix 2 contains a sample incident report form that an employer may use or adapt for its own purposes.)
• Address the need for appropriate treatment for victimized employees (In addition to physical injuries, victims and witnesses may suffer psychological trauma, fear of returning to work, feelings of incompetence, guilt, powerlessness, and fear of criticism by supervisors or managers.)

Post-incident debriefings and counseling can reduce psychological trauma and stress among victims and witnesses. An emerging trend is to use Critical Incident Stress Management to provide a range or continuum of care tailored to the individual victim or the organization’s needs.

After the occurrence of a workplace violence incident or annually, the employer, with the participation of the Authorized Employee Representative, will conduct a review of the workplace violence prevention plans.