Concerned about safety at work

Who_Girl · ‎28-04-2018

I started a new job 10 weeks ago and overall it’s great. However my line manager is mostly ok but often gets stressed - he’s quick to swear a lot and throw pads and pens in a huff. It’s not directed at anyone but it’s unsettling.

Last week we heard about a guy who was taking photos of our colleagues who were crossing a road (not using the nearby lights). We presume this guy was frustrated they weren’t using the proper crossing and was going to talk to someone about it to complain. In conversation we dismissed it as strange and thought no more about it.

Anyway, apparently after we talked about it, my manager went out, ran to this guy taking photos, wrestled him to the ground, punched him and threw his camera into the road. My manger was pulled off this guy by another colleague and the incident was witnessed by passers by, a coffee shop owner and other colleagues. I didn’t see it, i heard about it from a colleague who did. I know senior management were made aware of the incident but I dont know what is happening (my boss was at his desk later in the day and the following day so I presume he hasn’t been dismissed).

Ive never worked in a place with violence like that. It concerns me - what if I piss him off, what if I annoy him - am I safe? My husband is also concerned. I didn’t witness the incident and can only go by what I heard from a colleague who did - should I talk to HR about my concerns? It seems like such extreme behaviour and it worries me. It’s been playing on my mind all weekend. What does anyone think? Thank you!

Croix · ‎29-04-2018

Dear Who Girl~

Everybody has the right to go around without out being assaulted or abused, or put in fear that something like that might happen. The fact you manager throws things at work even if not aimed at anyone is a worry. It does show a tendency to resort to physical action.

You are obviously concerned about the matter to the point you are seeking advice here.

To hear that he has assaulted someone is more so. If I was in your position I would have a talk with HR and express your concerns. I'm not suggesting you actually make a complaint, just ask to hear the actual facts, rather than someone else's version and seek reassurance it will not happen to you. How HR do that is of course up to them.

It may help to have a friend or colleague with you at the time as a support person.

Please let us know how you get on.

Croix

Who_Girl · ‎03-05-2018

Thank you for your answer and advice - it gave me the confidence to speak up and talk about my concerns. I spoke to a contact in HR and she booked a chat with me, her and my manager’s manager to discuss it. They reassured me the incident was being taken seriously and was being followed up. They couldn’t break confidentiality but told me my manager was getting professional assistance (I presume councilling) and they were working closely with the professional. They also encouraged me to talk to them if I am at all worried, concerned etc. It was a really good chat and reassured me. So thank you for encouraging me to have that conversation, it really helped.

Croix · ‎03-05-2018

Dear Who Girl~

I'm pretty pleased it helped. The fact that you have taken charge and been to see HR is a pretty big thing and I'd expect if you were unfortunate enough to have a problem in future I'd think you would not hesitate to take action. Hopefully though it will never happen.

I also think its pretty good the HR section was so sympathetic and forthcoming.

Thank you for letting us know what happened.

Croix