Ultimate backup for staff subject to threats

An effective communication and support mechanism is the ultimate backup for colleagues who have experienced workplace violence. Thus, HA has prepared workplace violence communication flowchart so as to provide full support to our colleagues.

In case of workplace violence, the affected staff can inform his supervisor who will be responsible for carrying out prompt investigation, follow-up and providing immediate assistance. The emergency response mechanism will be activated when necessary. Moreover, the incident can be reported through the Advanced Incident Reporting System. Cases are categorised as ‘injury on-duty’ if there is staff injury, while cases without injury are categorised as ‘workplace violence incident’.

Dr Theresa Li, Head of Human Resources emphasises that HA attaches great importance in providing immediate and post-incident support to the affected staff. HA has introduced a series of measures, such as the activation of the Critical Incident Support Team, the arrangement of clinical psychology services and medical care or rehabilitation services, to help mitigate the physical and psychological aftermath of colleagues experienced workplace violence. Depending on the specific instance or severity of the case, the hospital involved may report the case to the police or apply Hospital Authority Bylaws to initiate prosecution. Supervisors will accompany the staff involved to attend medical consultations and give witness statement at the police station when necessary.

Also, HA has established the Workplace Violence Working Group to review and enhance the strategies for prevention and control workplace violence and software and hardware support. Meanwhile, HA provides training to Workplace Violence Prosecution Liaison Officers, frontline supervisors and executives to deepen their knowledge in prosecution of workplace violence incidents.