115 - Data-Driven Innovation in Workplace Violence Prevention: A Systemwide Approach to Protecting Healthcare Workers

Session Description: Recent tragedies, including the shootings at the CDC and UPMC Memorial Hospital, highlight the growing threat of workplace violence (WPV) in healthcare. Beyond such high-profile events, Bureau of Labor Statistics data show WPV in healthcare has risen 30% over the past decade. This session will examine LifeBridge Health’s multi-site WPV prevention program, launched to address rising violence and meet regulatory expectations. Key elements include live tactical training with a focus on de-escalation, alignment with Joint Commission and OSHA standards, and adoption of the SafeCare incident tracking system to report WPV data. The program trains all patient-facing staff, clinical and non-clinical, to recognize, de-escalate, and respond effectively. Presenters will share how data-driven decision-making, employee engagement, and system-level collaboration improved staff safety, confidence, and reporting, while addressing challenges of cost, communication, and training sustainability. Attendees will leave with practical, cost-conscious strategies and metrics to strengthen WPV prevention in their organizations.

Educational Gaps: Many healthcare organizations struggle with scalable WPV programs, accurate reporting, and staff engagement. Gaps include limited data systems, weak post-training reinforcement, barriers to reporting, insufficient leadership involvement, and balancing costs with comprehensive prevention.

Is this session being sponsored by an ACOEM Section or Component?: MOCH

Has this session previously been presented?: No

The AOHC 2026 theme is Healthy workers. Healthy world: This presentation directly supports the AOHC theme by demonstrating how a safer workplace fosters healthier workers. The WPV program described has resulted in:
• A 42–49% increase in employee confidence in de-escalation and self-protection skills.
• An increase in perceived safety, especially among those receiving hands-on training.
• A 38% reduction in WPV-related injury claims, despite national trends of rising violence.
By investing in prevention, systems like LifeBridge Health protect their workforce, reduce burnout and turnover, and support a culture of safety. This leads to better health outcomes not only for staff but also for the communities they serve - a true reflection of “Healthy Workers. Healthy World.”