Assignment: Occupational Health & Safety
Workplace Violence Program Assignment
Here's the scenario. Melissa just started a new job as the receptionist at a Social Assistance (Welfare) Office in a high crime area of Toronto. Her job involves the following:
a) filing of cases
b) answering calls to the main switch board
c) screening clients as they come in to pick up their cheques or see their case worker
d) any other job that they see fit
After the first week on the job she notices that there are many unhappy clients coming into the office demanding to see their case worker. When she tells them that they have to make an appointment some get very upset and verbally abusive. A few have even threatened her with violence. Many of the clients obviously have substance abuse issues.
This assignment is to design a Prevention of Workplace Violence Program for the worker in this position. The program must consist of all components outlined in the Workplace Violence section of the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act 32.0.2(1). You must design the program from the scenario provided. If there is information that you require that is not noted in the scenario just make your own assumptions but ensure to note them in your assignment. Minimum 2 pages. The following must be included:
32.0.2 (1)An employer shall develop and maintain a program to implement the policy with respect to workplace violence...
The program shall,
(a) include measures and procedures to control the risks identified in the assessment required under subsection 32.0.3 (1) as likely to expose a worker to physical injury; (Hence a risk assessment must be conducted. Does not have to be very extensive but identify some of the major risks of workplace violence for Melissa and some control measures.)
(b) include measures and procedures for summoning immediate assistance when workplace violence occurs or is likely to occur; (How will the worker summon immediate assistance if needed.)
(c) include measures and procedures for workers to report incidents of workplace violence to the employer or supervisor; (How will the worker report incidents of workplace violence.)
(d) set out how the employer will investigate and deal with incidents or complaints of workplace violence; and (How will the employer conduct an investigation.)
(e) include any prescribed elements. (No need to do anything with this clause. MOL adds this part in so we can add more stuff at a later date.)
Note - Do not include harassment as this would be a totally separate program.
Helpful Websites:
- Ministry of Labourhttp://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/topics/workplaceviolence.php
- Occupational Health & Safety Council of Ontario (OHSCO) Toolbox
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pdf/wvps_toolbox.pdf
(This is the best one by far)