In 2022, Canada reported 993 workplace fatalities and over 348,000 lost-time injuries across all industries. While these numbers are broad, healthcare workers remain especially vulnerable to workplace violence. The healthcare and social services sector has grown rapidly, prompting more focus on workplace safety. Over the last five years, many healthcare workers have no longer felt safe. Shockingly, 50% of nurses reported experiencing workplace aggression, and over 80% agreed that violence has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
The rise in workplace violence is contributing to burnout among nurses. Feeling unsafe at work contributes to emotional exhaustion and detachment. This challenge is not limited to healthcare. According to the Verkada Workplace Safety Survey, 4 in 5 banking workers experienced a security incident last year. Retail and hospitality workers also face growing safety threats. Canadian retailer Loblaw is piloting the use of body-worn cameras for staff to help reduce violent encounters. Early findings suggest these cameras may support de-escalation and improve safety for both employees and customers. Workplace safety is no longer industry-specific. It is now a critical concern across all frontline sectors.
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The Growing Work Safety Crisis
One in three frontline workers felt unsafe on the job. 58% believe physical harm threats are increasing. 76% of employers confirmed they experienced a workplace security incident. Banking and healthcare are the most impacted sectors, with 80% and 79% of employers reporting incidents.
Work safety concerns are growing in healthcare, retail, and hospitality. These sectors are the pillars of the economy. 60% of workers cited customer aggression as their top safety concern. Nearly half also fear active shooter incidents. Despite these risks, only one in three employees received proper training.
How Safety Concerns Threaten Workforce Stability
Safety issues now affect hiring and retention. 43% of employers say workplace safety is a barrier to attracting or retaining talent. In banking and healthcare, 54% and 42% of employers report the same issue. One in four candidates has declined job offers due to perceived safety risks.
Young workers are especially affected. Gen Z is twice as likely as Boomers to feel unsafe. Over 30% of Gen Z workers have switched jobs over safety concerns. More than half of frontline workers who feel unsafe say they’ll leave within a year if conditions don’t improve.
Bridging the Safety Perception Gap
Employers and employees see workplace safety very differently. 69% of leaders feel safe at work but only 37% of frontline workers agree. 42% of Gen Z workers feel employers prioritize inventory over employee safety. This gap highlights the need for stronger leadership focus on worker well-being.
The Need for Immediate Action on Work Safety
Workplace safety concerns are driving employee dissatisfaction and turnover. Two in three workers want increased security measures. Employers must make frontline safety their top priority.
Improved training, better surveillance, and rapid emergency response can make a difference. Action now will boost morale, retention, and productivity. Safer workplaces protect both people and business outcomes.
The Workplace Safety Study is a research study including a nationally representative sample of 1,000 Americans. These workers were on location across critical sectors: healthcare, retail, banking, hospitality, and services. Respondents had regular contact with patients, customers, and clients. The study surveyed both employers and employees, segmented by job level. It examined workplace safety attitudes, concerns, and priorities.
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Preventing Violence Against Frontline Workers: A Business Imperative
Frontline workers are the backbone of essential services. If they do not feel secure, their mental and physical well-being suffer. Violence, threats, and constant fear must be addressed. Businesses must lead the charge in creating safe workplaces.
Preventing violence against frontline workers is not optional. It’s vital for long-term workforce stability. Employers should act now to build environments where safety is embedded in the culture. By making workplace safety a true priority, organizations ensure their frontline teams feel protected, valued, and empowered to perform their best.
At Cloud Managed Networks, we’re committed to helping organizations strengthen workplace safety. If you’re ready to explore practical, technology-driven solutions for your workforce, don’t hesitate to contact us.
