Contact:
Barbara Nappa (401) 462-8104
Workers’ Compensation Ed Unit
June 20, 2006

JOHNSTON – Approximately two million American workers are victims of workplace violence each year. Any violent act, ranging from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults, that occurs inthe workplace or while conducting business off-site is considered workplace violence. Workplace violence continues to be one of the leading causes of on-the-job fatalities.

On Wednesday, June 21st, the RI Department of Labor and Training will host a free Workplace Violence Prevention Seminar at Lombardi’s 1025 Banquet Restaurant at 1025 Plainfield Street in Johnston. Speakers from the Department of Homeland Security, RI State Police, OSHA, and a facilities manager from a multi-national company will explain how to: conduct a risk assessment;develop a written program of acceptable behavior and discipline; screen, terminate, and layoff employees; prepare a crisis-response plan; and deal with potentially violent individuals. Registration begins at 8:30 AM and the program runs from 9:00 AM to Noon.

Vendors will be on-site, offering information on Employee Assistance Programs and the services offered by these providers. For more information, call the Education Unit at (401) 462-8100 and press option “one.”

- 30 -

The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training offers a wide array of employment and training services to both the general public and to individuals with unusual barriers to employment. DLT is ready to assist any job seeker, whether the goal is a first job, a better job, or a career change. Rhode Island's workforce is protected through the enforcement of labor laws, prevailing wage rates, and workplace health and safety standards. Temporary income support is available to unemployed, sick, or injured workers and a comprehensive rehabilitation program is available to those injured on the job.

DLT is dedicated to the growth and competitiveness of Rhode Island industry, administering a variety of training grants, tax credits, and apprenticeship programs to help employers. Economic indicators and labor market information are available for long-range planning. The Agency engages in active outreach, helping large and small employers retain their best workers or retrain their existing work force. At no cost to the employer, DLT will also screen job applicants, post job vacancies, and help businesses institute cost-sharing programs that can avert layoffs.

For more information on the innovative programs and services available to all Rhode Islanders at the Department of Labor and Training, please call (401) 462-8000 or visit the web site at
www.dlt.ri.gov

Equal Opportunity Employer/Program
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.
TDD (401) 462-8006