If you are experiencing domestic violence and realize it may affect your work:

  • Notify your supervisor and the human relations manager about your situation.
  • Discuss options available to you such as scheduling, safety precautions, exits and parking.
  • Employee/Family Assistance benefits.
  • Submit a recent photo of the abuser to your safety manager in the event of a confrontation at work.
  • Request that all information be treated with confidentiality to provide your safety and well-being.

If you are the co-worker of someone who is experiencing domestic violence:

  • If you suspect a co-worker is suffering abuse, do not directly confront her/him since it is important for an individual to self-disclose her/his own safety and well-being.
  • Express concern and a willingness to listen and be supportive if needed.
  • Offer support by listening and assisting; when an individual is ready, she/he will confide.
  • If a co-worker confides in you, encourage communication with the human resources manager and her/his supervisor.
  • If you witness an incident at work, contact your safety manager or law enforcement immediately. Make sure that the incident is documented.

If you are the supervisor or manager of an employee who is experience domestic violence:

  • Be aware of unusual absences or behavior and take note of bruises or emotional distress.
  • Contact the human resources manager to discuss concerns, resources available and ways to support the employee such as safety planning, employee assistance counseling, family resource referrals, flexible scheduling, security measures.
  • Be familiar with community resources and referrals.
  • Maintain confidentiality at all time; be sensitive to the seriousness of the situation.
  • Discuss who is appropriate to speak with the employee; agree on all forms of communication such as providing the safety manager with a photo if there is a risk at work.
  • Assist the employee in documenting all incidents with the abuser that occurred in the workplace.
  • Take action against domestic violence by encouraging employees to volunteer and by providing financial or in-kind support to your local domestic violence programs.