A new awareness campaign launched by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) aims to highlight employers' duty to protect workers, with the message that work-related violence is "never part of the job".
The campaign is designed to raise awareness amongst employers of their legal duties in protecting employees from potential threats of violence or aggressive behaviour from external parties in the workplace.
It also provides guidance on implementing best practices and preventive measures to create safer, more supportive working environments for workers.
The new campaign highlights the growing need for vigilance and proactive management in industries where employees may be particularly vulnerable to work-related violence and aggression from the public, such as healthcare, retail, hospitality and public services, the HSA said.
Dr Adrienne Duff, assistant chief executive for occupational health at the HSA, said: "The safety of employees must be a top priority for every employer. Work-related violence and aggression can have a devastating impact on both the physical and mental health of workers, as well as the overall productivity of businesses.
"This campaign aims to ensure that all employers understand the steps they need to take to safeguard their staff and to provide the necessary resources for preventing and managing incidents."
Work-related violence and aggression is a key hazard in workplaces, particularly in frontline roles where employees are in direct contact with the public.
Data from the HSA shows that the vast majority of incidents involving violence and aggression occur in public administration and defence, education, retail, health and social care and transport sectors.
Elaine Murphy, senior HSA inspector, said: "Employers across all sectors need to be aware of the risks their staff may face in their jobs and take concrete steps to mitigate those risks.
"By doing so, not only are they complying with their legal obligations, but they are also creating a more positive and healthier workplace.”
