A comprehensive guide on preventing workplace violence was recently launched in central London. The guide - Preventing Workplace Harassment and Violence - follows a Europe-wide agreement between employers’ organisations and unions.

For the first time, the Partnership of Public Employers (PPE), the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the CBI (Confederation of British Industry) have jointly come up with a guide on this issue. The guide also enjoys the backing of the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS), the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The guide would provide practical help and support to both the employer and the employees in checking violence and harassment at workplace. It aims to increase awareness and understanding amongst the employers and workers regarding such violence, including both internal and third party violence and elaborates steps to identify, prevent and manage such violence.

Speaking on the launch of the guide, Katja Hall, Director of Employment Policy, CBI, said that the organization hopes that the guide would prove useful for employers to help assess the risks faced by their employees and help them take adequate steps for the protection of their employees. Workplace violence should not be tolerated at any cost, added Hall.

Lord Young, Employment Relations Minister, was of the view that violence at workplace is completely unacceptable and that the Government is determined to address this problem. According to Young, this guide is the result of the combined efforts of employers, unions, the Government and the relevant agencies, and is another step in the direction of resolving this issue. If the workers understand their rights and the employers understand their obligations, then a better work culture can be promoted, added Young.

All organisations need to make appropriate efforts to protect the well-being of staff. CIPD courses are easily accessible and accredited training is provided by reputable companies such as Workplace Law; the Certificate in HR Practice imparts training and help to managers in the preparation of appropriate policies and procedures to successfully help employers tackle and reduce the risk of work-related violence.