In BC, workplace violence is the third leading cause of injury to nurses. In fact, health-care workers suffer a greater number of time loss injuries due to violence than any other occupation. No form of workplace violence is acceptable - all incidents of violence must be reported to your supervisor and investigated.
Under current OHS regulations, a risk assessment must be performed wherever a risk of violence exists. Employers must create procedures and policies to eliminate or minimize the risk. Employers must also educate, train and supervise workers in order to prevent injuries from violence.
BCNU's OHS department works with JOHS committee members, stewards and employers to ensure violence prevention programs are established at all work sites.