Violence Response

Staff are encouraged to be alert to the possibility of incidents and threats of violence. Duke prohibits retaliation against any staff member who, in good faith, reports a violation. Every effort will be made to protect the safety and anonymity of anyone who comes forward with concerns about a threat or act of violence.

If a staff member is a victim of workplace violence, his or her department will make every effort to provide support and security measures after the incident is reported to the Duke Police Department. Staff are encouraged to talk with their supervisors, Human Resources/Staff and Labor Relations representatives, or Duke Police officers. Alternatively, staff may call the Personal Assistance Service for confidential assistance.

Please refer to the table below for further information concerning Duke’s policies on violence in the workplace.

Definition Action
"Emergency" - A situation is considered an "emergency" if an injury has occurred or if there is an immediate threat of physical harm or injury. In an emergency, the staff member should consider his or her personal safety first. If possible, the staff member should then adhere to the following steps below:
Step 1 – Call 911, if appropriate.
Step 2 – Notify a supervisor.
"Non-Emergency" - A situation is considered a "non-emergency" if no injury has occurred or if there is no immediate danger, but the words or gestures of one person have induced fear of physical harm in another person. In the event of a non-emergency, the staff member should notify a supervisor, entity/departmental HR representative, or a Staff and Labor Relations representative.
The supervisor should become familiar with the "Workplace Violence Education Program" through the Duke Police Department This policy should be enforced fairly and uniformly. Call 911 and request assistance if the situation is perceived as dangerous. Attempt to identify and diffuse all conflicts as soon as possible without endangering personal safety or the safety of others. Report the incident and notify a supervisor.

In the event of a non-emergency, report any knowledge of a real or potential violation of this policy as well as any suspicious or unusual behaviors of a staff member, student, faculty member, patient, vendor, or customer to his or her supervisor. Cooperate with Staff and Labor Relations and Duke Police/Security in any investigation conducted. Do not attempt to challenge or disarm an armed and dangerous person.
Report Completion All injuries must be reported to the entity employee health department.
Evaluation by Employee Health Department A staff member who communicates a threat must be evaluated by the entity employee health department prior to returning to work.