The Joint Commission’s new standards for workplace violence go into effect January 1, 2020. Healthcare organizations that do not meet these standards may be subject to accreditation problems. In order to meet the new standards, healthcare organizations must take the following steps:
- Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential sources of workplace violence. This assessment should consider factors such as the type of patients being treated, the physical layout of the facility, and the policies and procedures in place to prevent and respond to incidents of violence.
- Develop and implement a plan to address the risks identified in the risk assessment. This plan should include measures such as security training for staff, improved lighting in parking areas, and changes to visitor policies.
- Review the plan on a regular basis to ensure that it is effective and make changes as needed.
- Respond quickly and effectively to incidents of workplace violence when they occur. This includes having a clear procedure for reporting incidents, conducting investigations, and taking disciplinary action when necessary.
By taking these steps, healthcare organizations can ensure that they are in compliance with the Joint Commission’s new standards and create a safer workplace for their employees.
