Although currently there are no specific Federal OSHA standards to address these problems, the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act), in Section 5(a)(1), provides that "each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees." In a workplace where the risk of violence and serious personal injury are significant enough to be "recognized hazards," the general duty clause would require the employer to take feasible steps to minimize those risks. Failure of an employer to implement feasible means of abatement of these hazards could result in the finding of an OSH Act violation.  It is recommended based on the state of the nation that precautions be taken to reduce the potential for workplace violence.  WSS can provide direction and support in creating a program or assisting in updating an existing plan. Plan elements include steps to take in case of an office emergency and employee training.

Who Needs This – Recommend all employers

OSHA – N/A

Cal/OSHA – N/A

Industry- Construction, Industry, Utilities, Manufacturing, Emergency Response