COLLOQUY

As a former faculty member I have struggled with many of the problems associated with inappropriate student behavior, sometimes in vain. As a Health and Safety Director, however, I recognize the responsibility of my department and the College administration to address this issue as an occupational hazard. Chemistry professors are no longer permitted to wash their hands in benzene, ergonomic adaptations are recognized as a necessity in the computer classroom, but in many institutions, faculty are still being sent into the classroom, where insubordinate and intimidating behavior is the potential hazard, without appropriate protection and support from administration.

All employees -- including faculty -- of any private employer in the US -- including colleges and universities -- are protected by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970. The express purpose of this act is to "assure so far as possible every man and woman in the Nation safe and healthful working conditions." The "general duty clause" of this act states that, "Each employer shall furnish to each of his employees...a place of employment which (is) free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees;" Violence in the workplace is a recognized hazard in many occupations, and OSHA has already published guidelines for specific fields.

Granted, there is a wide range of behaviors that could be considered "insubordinate." Some may be rude but innocuous, while others may clearly be the prelude to more serious consequences. When a student's behavior becomes "intimidating," however, it can unequivocally be classified as an occupational hazard because of its potential for physical harm to the faculty employee. Any behavior in the workplace which is harassing, intimidating, or injurious constitutes violence in the workplace.

It is the responsibility of every college administration to have a clearly written plan to address the issues surrounding violence in the workplace. This should include, at a minimum, support from the highest level of administration, a published conduct code which includes the prohibition of verbal or physical harassment, an effective method for the reporting of any behaviors which violate the conduct code, and a functional and equitable system for addressing the violations. The desire to preserve the safety and health of the college employee has to be at least as powerful as the need to fill the classroom.

-- Cynthia D. Twining, Health and Safety Director (posted 4/15, 5:15 p.m., E.D.T.)

previous response

next response