Increase in Workplace Aggression and Harassment According to Employers

• Retail, public services and hospitality among the highest reported cases
• Ibec Launches Toolkit to Combat Workplace Aggression and Harassment

Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, has launched a new toolkit designed to support businesses in combatting workplace aggression and harassment. According to Ibec, the number of workplace-related aggression and harassment incidents has risen, with customer-facing services such as retail, libraries, and hospitality among the highest reported cases. Incidents of harassment and aggression may relate to an employee's gender, relationship status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race, or membership in the Traveller community.

Research from Circle K forecourt and convenience stores revealed that 75% of their retail employees have encountered verbal, racial, gender-based, or physical abuse from customers.

Ibec’s toolkit for employers provides practical information and resources to help identify and select suitable risk controls for their business. The toolkit addresses workplace harassment and aggression, covering employer responsibilities under equality and health and safety laws. It includes sample documents and checklists to help employers prevent and address incidents before they escalate and enable employers to assist employees who have been subject to aggression in the workplace.

Nichola Harkin, Head of Employment Law Services at Ibec, said:

"Ireland has made significant strides in addressing discrimination and promoting equality in recent years. Despite these advances, there has been a concerning rise in harassment, abuse, and violence within society, often directed at individuals based on their nationality, sexual orientation, or place of employment. This troubling trend has manifested in various settings, including workplaces. It is important that employers feel empowered to mitigate risk where possible and support their employees in responding to and reporting incidents immediately."

Kara McGann, Head of Skills and Social Policy at Ibec, added:

"We have seen a number of trends over the past few years that have given rise to significant concerns for employers when it comes to protecting their staff at work. For example, libraries, pharmacies, and bookshops have become frequent targets of 'protestors' who engage in verbal attacks and intimidation of staff. These personalised protests mirror global movements and represent a new challenge in Ireland. The surge in such behaviour is partly attributed to the polycrises of the pandemic, the Ukraine conflict, rising energy costs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions. These factors have contributed to a sense of disenfranchisement and marginalisation among individuals, leading to increased resentment, intolerance, and polarising views. Such sentiments, often fuelled by misinformation, undermine social cohesion and economic collaboration."

You can access the toolkit here