Assault in the Workplace
April 26, 2019
The #MeToo movement has raised awareness of assault occurring in the workplace. Unfortunately, too many women continue to be assaulted at work. In some cases, the resulting injuries cause them to miss days of work. In fact, according to a report by the National Safety Council, women suffer 70 percent of all nonfatal assault-related injuries that cause missed work days. Women are significantly more impacted by other safety issues, such as accidental injuries and illnesses.
In 2017, 12,820 women were injured in assault-related incidents at work, which was an increase of 60 percent from 2011. During that same year, only 5,530 men suffered assault-related injuries. In addition to assaults, the following injuries and illnesses disproportionately impacted women:
- Accidental injury by another person: 59 percent
- Falls on the same level: 57 percent
- Ergonomic issues, including repetitive motion injuries: 61 percent
Industries that Have Higher Assault Rates
Research shows that women who work in certain industries are at an increased risk of experiencing workplace violence. For example, health care workers are often exposed to patients or angry family members who may become violent. Patients who are under the influence of drugs or have severe mental health issues may become physically violent toward a health care worker. In addition, if a patient is sick with a contagious illness, health care workers can become seriously ill. As a result, 80 percent of nonfatal injuries and illnesses in the healthcare industry involve women. In the education industry, 61 percent of non-fatal injuries involve women, and in management, business, and financial companies, 60 percent of victims are women.
The National Safety Council compiles data on workplace injuries and illnesses in its Injury Facts document, which has tracked statistics on preventable deaths and injuries for close to 100 years. According to the interim president and CEO of the National Safety Council, the data shows that there is more we can and should be doing to ensure that our workplaces are safe for all employees. Employers must closely examine all safety risks and make the appropriate changes and improvements. The National Safety Council provides emergency preparedness training for employers who are interested in taking proactive steps to protect all employees.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of Workplace Violence
If you or someone you know has been assaulted at work, resulting in serious injuries, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. Violence has no place in the work environment, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the full financial benefits you deserve. Our dedicated and experienced legal team will continue to fight for you until we have your complete satisfaction. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online. Located in Baltimore, we serve clients throughout Maryland.
