Workplace violence and aggression have emerged as serious concerns across Australia, with a startling 56% increase in workers’ compensation claims for assaults and exposure to workplace violence since 2017-18. This alarming statistic, highlighted in the Workplace and Work-Related Violence and Aggression in Australia report by Safe Work Australia, highlights the urgent need for businesses to address the growing risks their employees face.
Gender Disparities in Workplace Violence
One of the key findings from the report is the gendered differences in exposure to workplace violence. The types of industries and occupations where men and women work play a significant role in shaping these experiences. While physical violence at work remains a significant concern for men, women have experienced a disproportionate increase in claims. Over the past decade, claims from women have risen by 73%, compared to a 33% increase among men.
The Leading Cause of Workplace Violence
According to the Safe Work Australia report, customers are the most common source of workplace violence. This is particularly relevant for industries where employees have high levels of public interaction, such as healthcare, retail, and social services. Workers in these sectors are frequently exposed to hostile and volatile situations, putting them at higher risk of both physical and verbal abuse.
Common Forms of Workplace Violence
The most frequent forms of workplace violence in Australia include angry or hostile behaviour, shouting and swearing, and intimidation or insults. While these behaviours may not involve physical harm, they still represent significant risks to workers, especially when such conduct is prolonged or frequent. These forms of aggression can lead to serious psychological injuries, contributing to stress, anxiety, and decreased job satisfaction.
The significant rise in workers’ compensation claims for workplace violence in Australia suggests that current safety measures may be inadequate. More research is required to uncover the factors driving this trend. Potential contributing factors could include the effectiveness of workplace control measures, access to workers’ compensation, the type and frequency of violence experienced, and employer support following incidents.
Employers must place a renewed focus on addressing these risks. Developing effective and reliable control measures, alongside a commitment to supporting workers who have experienced violence or aggression, will be essential to reducing workplace violence and improving overall safety.
At Processworx, we acknowledge that workplace violence is a growing concern. Addressing these risks requires more than just reactive measures. Employers must actively engage in improving workplace controls, conducting research into the root causes of violence, and fostering a supportive environment where workers feel safe to report incidents. By taking these steps, businesses can create safer, more resilient workplaces for all employees.
If you would like to learn how ProcessWorx can help with Human Resources or Work Health & Safety, please contact us on 08 9316 9896, enquiries@processworx.com.au. Also watch an Introduction to ProcessWorx.
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