(Version one 1.7.98)
Policy Reference
This policy document refers to the following aims and objectives outlined in the Council's general statement of Health & Safety Policy.
The provisions and maintenance of plant and systems of work that are so far as is reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health.
The provisions of such information, instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety at work of its employees.
Introduction
The Highland Council recognises that exposure to violence is not acceptable part of an employees' job, and will take all reasonably practicable measures to prevent or reduce the risk of such exposure. In delivering its services to the community therefore the Council expects that members of the public will treat its employees with courtesy and respect. Equally, the Council expects all of its employees to provide a courteous and helpful service and treat people and their property with due respect. It also acknowledges the particular vulnerability of certain groups of staff whose occupation or interface with the public places them at a greater risk of being subject to violence.
What is Violence?
For the purposes of this policy the term violence includes,
"Any incident in which an employee is abused, threatened or assaulted by a member of the public (including clients and pupils etc.), in circumstances arising out of the course of his or her employment".
This would include physical violence, aggression, verbal or written abuse, sexual or racial abuse and intentional damage to personal property.
The Council's Harassment Policy will apply in relation to incidents of violence occurring between employees.
Arrangements
In order to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of employees exposed to the risk of violence at work, the Council will:
- Ensure that risks of violence are identified, assessed, reported and controlled as necessary.
- Establish a comprehensive recording system for acts of violence occurring throughout its range of Services.
- Provide support for employees who are the victims of violence.
- Provide training for employees to enable them to avoid and/or deal with actual and potential violence.
- Work in partnership with other agencies to develop strategies to reduce the incidence of violence at work.
- Consult Trade Unions and employees on violence issues and establish a process for sharing information on violence risks.
- Ensure sufficient resources are available for the provision of appropriate control measures
- Ensure that the arrangements for dealing with violence at work are reviewed at suitable intervals.
Guidance
Guidance will be issued in respect of the recommended means of implementing the following aspects of this policy.
1. Assessment of the risk of violence
2. Control measures
3. Training
4. The recording of incidents
5. Victim support
Legal Reference
This policy and its associated guidance outline the provisions the Council will make to discharge its duties in relation to the following statutory requirements.
The Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, Section 2 - The duty to ensure so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of its employees.
The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regs 1992, Reg 3 - The requirement to assess risks arising from work activities.