HSE reports "disturbing" rise in workplace-related violence

A disturbing picture of increased workplace-related violence and intimidation emerged at a recent conference on the subject organised by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Back in 2000, the British Crime Survey confirmed at least 1.3 million annual assaults and threats involving security personnel and members of the police service. Many employees find themselves threatened and assaulted several times each year, while generalised under-reporting of such incidents and 'near miss' situations means that the present picture is much worse than is shown by current statistics.

Chairing the conference, HSE supremo Bill Callaghan stressed that his own organisation has now embarked on a three-year programme aimed at tackling the problem head on – with a "challenging" target of a 10% reduction in incidents come the end of this year.

Callaghan described the recent development of National Occupational Standards in managing work-related violence as "one of the highlights" of the programme. These standards – produced by the former Employment National Training Organisation with HSE funding – provide benchmarks of good practice for employers, employees and enforcement authorities. Speaking at the conference, Callaghan added: "They are a valuable new resource to help employers draw up policies on work-related violence, and offer a much-needed framework for managers and staff to assess training needs."

National Occupational Standards are UK-wide, and approved by both the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority and the Scottish Qualifications Authority for a five-year period. They've been developed sector-by-sector with the involvement of employers and other stakeholders, and will be used as the basis for qualifications. That said, they are not intended to create a qualification in their own right.

Practical assistance for employers and staff has also been rolling out as part of the HSE programme. Initiatives include the publication of new guidance to help smaller businesses manage the risk of work-related violence. Ten case studies are available, showing how business owners and managers in different sectors have tackled the problem.

Bill Callaghan has also welcomed work being done by the Home Office to support the 250-plus active town centre retail and business crime partnerships, stressing that he is keen to see these moves play their part in helping to reduce acts of violent conduct in the retail sector.

In addition, Callaghan stated that the Home Office is carrying out the first independent commercial crime victimisation study of the retail sector for the past ten years.