University of Georgia

Workplace Violence Policy

Policy Statement

The University of Georgia (“the Universityâ€*) is committed to the prevention

of workplace violence and the maintenance of a respectful working

environment. A safe and secure environment is a fundamental prerequisite for

fulfilling the University mission of teaching, research and public service.

The University reaffirms the basic right of employees to a safe and humane

working environment. Every employee will be treated at all times with

dignity, respect, and fairness.

Prohibited Conduct

The University will not tolerate any type of workplace violence committed by

or against employees. Workplace violence, for the purpose of this policy, is

defined as any physical assault, threatening behavior or verbal abuse

occurring in the work setting. It includes but is not limited to beatings,

stabbings, shootings, sexual assaults, psychological traumas such as threats,

obscene phone calls, an intimidating presence, and harassment of any nature

such as stalking, swearing or shouting.

Reporting Procedures

Employees are responsible for notifying the appropriate supervisor or the

Human Resources Division of any threats which they have witnessed, received,

or have been told that another person has witnessed or received. Employees

should also report any behavior they have witnessed which they regard as

threatening or violent when that behavior is/or might be carried out on

University property or in connection with University employment. Reports or

incidents warranting confidentiality will be handled appropriately and

information will be disclosed to others only on a need-to-know basis.

Violations

To make deliberate false accusations of workplace violence violates this

policy. In such instances, the complainant will be subject to disciplinary

action. However, failure to prove a claim of workplace violence does not

constitute proof of a false and/or malicious accusation.

Employees who, in good faith, report what they believe to be workplace

violence or who cooperate in any investigation will not be subjected to

retaliation. Any employee who believes he/she has been the victim of

retaliation for reporting workplace violence or cooperating in an

investigation should immediately contact the Human Resources Division.

Enforcement

Threats, threatening conduct, or any other acts of aggression or violence in

the workplace will not be tolerated. Violations of the workplace violence

policy will be met with appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including

dismissal from the University. Non-employees engaged in violent acts on

University property will be reported to the proper civil authorities and

fully prosecuted.