How Does Domestic Violence Affect Employees?

One study of domestic violence relationships showed that abusers caused…

$3-5 billion is what domestic violence costs U.S. businesses annually due to absenteeism, turnover and lower productivity.

74% of employed abused women are harassed by their partners at work.

175,000 days of work are missed annually due to domestic violence
$4,000,000,000 = the average annual medical expense resulting from domestic violence
4,000,000 American women were physically abused by their intimate partners in 1997

What To Do About Domestic Violence in the Workplace

Domestic violence policy: Do survivors have the same rights, opportunities and benefits as all other employees? Adopt principles which communicate your commitment to zero tolerance for domestic violence.
Education: Create a safe environment to talk about domestic violence. Hold lunch seminars to provide information to employees.
Workplace safety plan: Keep a picture of the abuser and copies of protective orders with a supervisor, security personnel and reception staff. Have the survivor’s calls screened, remove her name and number from automated directories. Ensure safety in the parking lot: extra lighting, escorts to cars, parking spots near the entrance.
Supervisor training: Can your supervisors recognize the signs of domestic violence? Make sure they know the domestic violence policy and where to refer survivors.
Zero tolerance for abusers: Abusive behavior at work should have consequences, including use of workplace phones, faxes or email to harass intimate partners.
EAP: Do you offer a confidential Employee Assistance program? (www.wfseap.org for more information)
Flex-time and leave policies: Are survivors able to attend court hearings and counseling appointments without fear of losing their job? Would your employees be able to temporarily leave the area or go to a shelter to stay safe?