GENEVA - This Code provides workers and employers with guidance on how to develop practical responses to violence at work, promote dialogue, consultation and negotiation among governments, employers and workers, and to draft national laws, policies and programmes of action.
The Code puts priority on developing a constructive workplace culture based on decent work, work ethics, safety, mutual respect, tolerance, equal opportunity, cooperation and quality of service. Policies should address the definition of workplace violence, issue statements condemning workplace violence, and develop fair complaints systems, the Code says.
Education, training and communication are seen as keys to successful policies. Violent incidents also require effective intervention and management. The Code assigns specific roles and responsibilities to governments, employers and workers and their organizations, as they implement strategies to combat workplace violence and raise awareness of the issue.
The Code was discussed at a tripartite meeting in Geneva from 8 to 15 October 2003, by 36 experts representing governments, employers and workers, and received final approval from the Governing Body in November. The ILO will disseminate it widely, and activities will be encouraged to put the Code into practice around the world.
ILO codes of practice are not intended to replace national laws or regulations, or accepted standards. They are primarily designed as a basis for prevention and protective measures.
Note 6: "Code of Practice on Workplace Violence in Services Sectors and Measures to Combat this Phenomenon", available at /sector.