Prevention is the best Protection

Although no level of security measures is a guarantee that workplace violence will not occur, there are measures that all associates can take to reduce the risk of workplace violence.

Take all threats seriously

If Human Resources is notified of a possible threat, they will notify all Yaskawa associates that we are in a state of heightened security.

For example, HR receives a copy of a restraining order listing Yaskawa as a protected location.

During periods of heightened security, do not allow any person to enter a Yaskawa facility without using his/her own security badge. This includes holding the door open for an associate with whom you work every day

During periods of heightened security, all associates must wear their security badge in an area that can be easily seen.

Preventing Type 1 Workplace Violence

Type 1 workplace violence is a violent act by criminals who have no other connection with the workplace, but enter to commit robbery or another crime.

• Do not bypass existing security measures
• Do not block doors open
• Do not allow other people to enter without using a security badge
• Do not leave the building alone at night
• Report low light conditions in the parking lots

Preventing Type 2 Workplace Violence

Type 2 workplace violence is directed at employees by customers, suppliers, or others to whom service is provided.

• Do not engage in, or escalate, arguments
• Report verbally abusive customers, suppliers, or others to Human Resources
• Use the Department of State travel warnings website prior to traveling to a foreign country
• Do not enter any location where you feel unsafe

Preventing Type 3 Workplace Violence

Type 3 workplace violence is violence against co-workers, supervisors, or managers by a present or former employee.

• Report threats to Human Resources
• Report unusual behavior to Human Resources
• Know the warning signs (included later in this section)

Preventing Type 4 Workplace Violence

Type 4 workplace violence is violence committed in the workplace by someone who doesn't work there, but has a personal relationship with an employee.

• Report to Human Resources any threats you may have received from someone outside of Yaskawa

For example, a current or former spouse, girl/boy friend, etc.

• Provide Human Resources with a copy of restraining orders

Reporting Procedure

Yaskawa America, Inc. personnel are responsible for notifying the designated management representative of any threats which they have witnessed, received, or have been told that another person has witnessed or received - including those related to domestic violence.

Even without an actual threat, personnel should also report any behavior they have witnessed which they regard as threatening or violent, when that behavior is job related or might be carried out on a company controlled site, or is connected to company employment.

Yaskawa associates are responsible for making this report regardless of the relationship between the individual who initiated the threat or threatening behavior and the person or persons who were threatened or were the focus of the threatening behavior.

If the designated representative is not available, personnel should report the threat to their supervisor or another member of the management team.

Associates who wish to report anonymously can do so by calling the whistle-blower hotline located on the UHC homepage.

Warning Signs

You must remember that it can be very difficult to know when a person is going to be violent. While not all people will show the following signs, these types of behaviors and physical signs can serve as warning signs that a situation could turn violent. Always take these behaviors in context. Look for multiple warning signs and signs for escalation (the behaviors are getting worse).

If you are concerned about a person who shows some or all of the identified characteristics, take action. Report your concern to your supervisor, or human resources department.

It is extremely important to understand that the following behaviors do not mean a person will become violent, but they may indicate that the person is experiencing high levels of stress. Each situation is unique and professional judgment or outside assistance may be necessary to determine if intervention is necessary.

Always take particular note if:

• There is a change in their behavior patterns
• The frequency and intensity of the behaviors are disruptive to the work environment
• The person is exhibiting many of these behaviors, rather than just a few

Red Flags that must be reported immediately:

• Bullying
• Paranoid behavior
• Controlling behavior
• Intolerant attitude
• Ominous threats
• Artwork depicting violence
• Increasing belligerence
• Fascination with other violent incidents
• Anger management issues
• Noticeable behavior changes
• Suicidal comments or threats

New, higher intensity, or more frequent behavior warning signs that must be reported:

• Pushing the limits of acceptable conduct
• Disregarding the health and safety of others
• Refusal to accept job performance problems
• Testing the limits to see what they can get away with
• Blaming others for mistakes
• Complaints of unfair personal treatment
• Talking about the same problems repeatedly without resolving them
• Handling criticism poorly
• Insistence that he or she is always right
• Misinterpretation of communications from supervisors or co-workers
• Social isolation
• Sudden and/or unpredictable change in energy level
• Holds grudges, especially against his or her supervisor
• Verbalizes hope that something negative will happen to the person against whom he or she has a grudge

Use caution if you see someone who shows one or more of the following non-verbal signs or body language

• Pacing, restless, or repetitive movements
• Signs of extreme fatigue
• Trembling of shaking
• Clenched jaws or fists
• Exaggerated or violent gestures
• Change in voice
• Loud talking or chanting
• Scowling, sneering, or use of abusive language
• Glaring or avoiding eye contact
• Violating your personal space

Remember, these are warning signs that a person could become violent, not that they necessarily will become violent.