Workplace violence increased by 25%: WorkSafeBC

RICHMOND, B.C. — WorkSafeBC is reminding employers of their obligation to prevent workplace violence and ensure the safety of those who work for them.

According to WorkSafeBC, violence has increased by 25 per cent in B.C. in the last five years, from 2,292 accepted claims in 2018 to 2,868 in 2022.

"Unfortunately, the potential for violence exists whenever there is direct interaction between

workers and non-workers," said Barry Nakahara, Senior Manager of Prevention Field Services at WorkSafeBC.

"Employers must provide a workplace as safe from the threat of violence as possible."

WorkSafeBC regulations require employers to conduct a risk assessment, have policies and procedures in place to protect workers from violence and provide instructions to workers.

Employers must implement controls to eliminate or reduce the risk of violence at work, according to the provincial agency.

The controls can include developing and utilizing violence-prevention policies, providing training and education as well as regularly conducting risk assessments.

Other examples include physical barriers, lighting, public visibility and safe work procedures.

WorkSafeBC says employers must review and update their violence prevention program yearly to ensure it is still effective as the work environment changes.

According to the provincial agency, lone workers may be at a higher risk of confrontations or violence, especially working late-night hours.

WorkSafeBC recommends employers provide lone workers with communication tools, such as a radio, phone or a check-in system, to eliminate or reduce the risk of harm.

The agency emphasizes the importance of regular interval check-ins, which include set times, emergency rescue provisions and designated people responsible for keeping track of the check-ins.

"Violence can have a significant physical and psychological impact on workers," said Nakahara.

"Employers must identify and address the risk of violence in their workplace, and it's important to involve workers in this process."

Nakahara adds that employers with over 20 employees should work with the joint health and safety committee to develop and implement a violence prevention program.

For more information on workplace violence or working alone, visit WorkSafeBC's website.

Thanks for Reading!

Energeticcity.ca is the voice of the Peace, bringing issues that matter to the forefront with independent journalism. Our job is to share the unique values of the Peace region with the rest of B.C. and make sure those in power hear us. From your kids’ lemonade stand to natural resource projects, we cover it–but we need your support.

Give $10 a month to Energeticcity.ca today and be the reason we can cover the next story.

Report a typo or an error

Read our guiding principles