The ASU conducted a survey amongst disability workers on the issue of workplace violence during the latter part of 2003. Survey results for the major questions are provided over the next few pages. A summary of some of the major findings are detailed below.

It revealed some disturbing results which sadly are all too familiar to workers in the disability sector.

Physically Assaulted at Work
Over 70% of residential disability workers reported that they are physically assaulted at work at least once per year. In day programs the incidence of physical assault is even higher. The range of injuries includes most commonly bruising, cuts, scratches and stress/trauma related problems but also includes concussion, broken wrist, jaw, cheek, dislocated shoulder and syringe stabbing.

Not Enough Staff to Support the Needs of Clients
About half the disability workers surveyed do not believe there is enough staff rostered on at any one time to support the needs of service users and ensure the health and safety of staff. This view is higher in residential services than day programs or other types of disability services. Almost 80% of disability workers in residential services stated that shifts where sometimes unfilled due to rostering problems or they were forced to work additional shifts as there was no one available to fill a vacant shift.

More Training Needed in Dealing with Behaviours
Half the disability workers surveyed do not believe their employer provides adequate training to deal with the needs and behaviours of clients. Only half the workers in residential services had received training in Occupational Health and Safety, Dealing with Violent Behaviour and Self Protective Strategies. Workers in Day Programs were more likely to have received such training than workers in residential services.

Workers Not Satisfied with Policies for Dealing with Violence at Work
Almost half the disability workers surveyed stated that they were not satisfied with their organisations policies for dealing with workplace violence. A similar number were not satisfied with the actions taken after they had experienced a violent incident at work. Over 90% of incidents were reported yet only 25% were offered critical incident debriefing.

Source: Australian Services Union: Campaign News: Workplace Violence in Disability Services – 2003