WASHINGTON, D.C. 20590

May 30, 1996

MEMORANDUM TO ALL DOT EMPLOYEES

WORKPLACE VIOLENCE POLICY STATEMENT

A safe working environment for all employees, free from violence or any threat of violence, is one goal of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Violence and threatening behaviors in any form are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

Threatening behavior may include harassment in the form of intimidation or any oral or written remarks or gestures that communicate a direct or indirect threat of physical harm. Any individual who commits an act of violence or threatening behavior may be removed from the premises and may be subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal penalties.

The cooperation of supervisors, managers, and employees is necessary to implement this policy and maintain a safe working environment. Do not ignore violent, threatening, harassing, or intimidating behaviors or any suspicious items or activities at or near your work area. If you observe or experience any of these behaviors or activities by anyone on departmental premises, whether from an employee, a contractor, or a visitor, report it immediately to a supervisor or manager. Supervisors and managers are expected to take immediate action to investigate reported threats or violence and any suspicious items or activities, and with the assistance of appropriate officials, reduce or eliminate the risk of workplace violence.

Threats, assaults, or suspicious items that require immediate attention by Security or police should be reported immediately to Security, the Federal Protective Service, the Building Guards, or to the local police at 911.

This Department and its employees share the responsibility for safety at the worksite. I pledge to maintain and enforce the highest standards of personal welfare at the workplace and I ask all employees, supervisors, and managers to join me in this important commitment.

Frederico Pena