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During the twelve years of his teaching career, Morten experienced violence and threats that unfortunately became a regular part of his daily working life. Although he experienced them several times, he eventually got used to such a situation. Morten regrets that it is very sad that experiencing threats has become his habit.
1 in 4 primary school teachers have experienced violence and threats. Research by the Norwegian Institute for the Working Environment (STAMI) shows this. School workers are one of the occupational groups most exposed to violence and threats.
“The students threatened me with beatings and guns. I received death threats against me and my family, says Morten.
A middle school teacher also says he was beaten, kicked and pushed by students.
Beaten by a student
Morten has been working as a physical education teacher for many years. His memories of gymnastics classes eight years ago are unfortunately inextricably linked to violence and a brutal attack by one of the students. While practicing on the soccer field, the two students started fighting, one of them being significantly smaller than the other. Morten immediately took action to end the brawl and protect the students. Unfortunately, one of the boys turned around unexpectedly and hit Morten in the jaw with great force.
It's an uncomfortable and difficult situation that Morten admits is becoming an increasingly common reality for teachers today. Constant exposure to violence and aggression affects their psyche and emotional state, whether they want to admit it or not.
Violence and threats can have serious consequences
Experiencing violence and threats in the workplace is a serious problem that has negative consequences in both the short and long term. In addition to physical injuries, workers often suffer psychological problems such as anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances after such incidents. Even the fear of violence and threats can have a negative impact on employees' mental health, says Ida Aagaard, section manager at the Norwegian Labor Inspectorate.
Violence and threats in the workplace also damage the company's work environment. They can lead to less engagement employees to work, an increase in sickness absences and increased employee turnover.
The inspection shows deficiencies in training and procedures
The results of the supervision carried out indicate that many schools do not have sufficient training to prevent and deal with violence and threats, and many teachers have difficulties in dealing with such situations appropriately. Clear and appropriate procedures are needed to effectively counter violence and threats.
Ida Aagaard, head of section at the Norwegian Labor Inspectorate, notes that in incidents involving violence and threats, there is not enough time to assess the situation and react. Employees should be familiar with procedures and have appropriate training. It is especially important for teachers to receive training in dealing with violence and threats, which they often experience at work, but this is not part of their standard education course.
Read our next article: Violence among minors
Morten, a gym teacher, points out the management's responsibility to keep violence and threats a constant focus and to put it on the agenda. According to his belief, this will help create a safer working environment.
The Working Environment Act sets out clear requirements for the employer
In 2017 they entered into force new regulations regarding violence and threats at work. The regulations set out clear requirements for employers to prevent and follow up on violence and threats. With the intention of ensuring that employees have a safe working day.
– Employees who are exposed to violence or threats must also be trained and rehearsed on how to deal with such situations. Surveys and risk assessments related to violence and threats must be conducted. They then need to be supplemented with the necessary resources, says Aagaard.
– Exposure to violence and threats should not be an individual problem. It explains that this is a working environment issue.
Material: Arbeidstilsynet, Pack
