Domestic Violence in the Workplace: Lessons Learned from the Harman International Domestic Violence Program “Partnering in Workplace Violence Prevention: Translating Research to Practice,” sponsored by NIOSH Baltimore, MD November 16, 2004 By Kiersten Stewart Director of Public Policy Family Violence Prevention Fund

Harman International Domestic Violence Prevention Program In 2001, after one of their valued employees was murdered by her husband, Harman International, a U.S.-based international consumer and professional electronics company, joined with the Family Violence Prevention Fund to implement a comprehensive program to address domestic violence in their workplace.

Harman International’s Goals: Increase employees’ awareness of domestic violence Increase management’s awareness of domestic violence as workplace issue Increase supportive workplace responses to domestic violence when identified, leading to increased safety and well-being

Domestic Violence Prevention Project Included: Development and implementation of domestic violence policy with accompanying guidelines Training of all employees and managers at domestic facilities on domestic violence and the new policy Distribution of resource information including safety cards, posters, etc Opportunities for each facility to develop additional activities, including volunteering

Training Program was Effective After the trainings, 91% of employees said they were more likely to refer someone for help 89% said they were more likely to be supportive of a colleague who was abused Reports of domestic violence of employees to management have increased since the training --- this is a good thing.

Costs/Benefits Harman’s project included the development of a policy, and training of all management and staff, and ongoing educational and volunteer opportunities at its office locations. How much did this cost the company? How much did this save?

New Resource for Employers… FVPF developing on-line training for EAP, HR Managers on domestic violence Available early 2005 Includes “Reasons for Taking on DV” –Why it’s a workplace issue? –Case studies of successful company programs, small and large –Facts sheets, sample policies, training guidelines, strategic solutions