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Social workers are faced with an ever-changing work environment and are often exposed to the possibility of a dangerous situation while working in the field. Situations such as domestic violence, substance abuse, the availability of weapons, and an economy where unemployment and feelings of despair and hopelessness have impacted many individuals and families all increase the risk of danger to a worker. As part of the ongoing mission of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies, the Guidelines for Social Worker Safety in the Workplace was published in 2013 to establish best practices for workers and agencies related to safety. This document highlights the need to promote, develop, and protect the profession and its workers, while validating that work is often done in a variety of settings that can be unpredictable and sometimes unsafe. It advocates for a worker's right to a safe working environment in the office and in the field, by outlining his or her right to practice in an environment that is free from verbal or physical abuses or the threat of either. It also highlights the need for risk assessment skills and interventions to keep workers safe while practicing in the office, at a client's home, or in the community. The NASW also charges agencies with the duty to respond to safety with short-term directives and long-term policies that maximize safe practices. Agencies are also encouraged to create policies and safety committees that direct and oversee safety practices. Ongoing training should also be encouraged and facilitated by agencies in an effort to keep safety practices as a top priority for all who serve within the agency.
For the safety of all workers, as well as those they serve, it is important to establish and maintain safety practices in the field and in the office. Workers should prepare themselves by learning about the dynamics of addiction and mental illness, as well as other indicators of violence. Prior to meeting a client, it is important to gather information, such as who is living in the home; if there is a history of violence with the individual client or in the family; if there is any reported substance abuse or mental health disorders; if firearms are reported to be in the home; or if there are any possible environmental dangers that may pose a risk to the worker.
There are a number of different things that social workers can do to prevent becoming a victim of violence. In the age of advanced technology, social workers should be equipped with a cell phone. It is important that workers keep this cell phone located on their person and charged at all times. Although it is important to dress as a professional, it is also important for workers to dress for the environment they will be working in. If workers are going to be out in the community completing visits, they should keep in mind the potential for danger and dress accordingly. It is always important for a worker to be on time, when possible, and to inform the client if she is going to be late. Tardiness can contribute to a person's frustration and agitation, leading to a potentially hostile environment. Many agencies have shared calendars and require workers to use these. By letting other individuals know where a worker intends to be, a worker ensures that if he or she were not to return or be gone for an unexpected period of time, the agency would know where to find him or her or where to send assistance. It is always important for the worker to be aware of the environment and his or her location in that environment. Social workers should always place themselves between the client and the exit of their setting. Most important, if a worker feels that he or she is in an unsafe situation, he or she should leave that environment. Workers often do much of their work in the community and in the privacy of individuals' homes. It is important that a worker always be aware of who is in a home at all times.
It is wise for workers to utilize mental rehearsal to visualize themselves in undesirable situations. Social workers are often faced with individuals who are angry, agitated, hostile, or in a state of crisis. It is important to be familiar and comfortable with basic de-escalation techniques. A worker should always remain calm and self-assured in situations
As a reactive measure, some agencies are beginning to establish safety committees to address in situations of violence that have already occurred and in hopes of preventing other workers from being placed in these situations. Agencies should also consider creating and implementing policies and procedures related to safety in the workplace. Workers should also be encouraged to trust their judgment and to ask for assistance when necessary. Whether social workers are brand new to the field or have been serving others for years, safety is an important topic to keep at the forefront of their practice and should be revisited often by workers and agencies. Workers can also carry items such as personal panic alarms or pepper spray, if permitted. Most important, workers should always trust their instincts and act accordingly in every situation.
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