Workplace Violence Prevention

Ivey’s is committed to preventing workplace violence and to maintaining a safe work environment. Given the increasing violence in society in general, Ivey’s has adopted the following guidelines to deal with intimidation, harassment, or other threats of (or actual) violence that may occur during business hours or on its premises.

All TM’s, including Supervisors and temporary TM’s, should be treated with courtesy and respect at all times. Team Members are expected to refrain from fighting, “horseplay,” or other conduct that may be dangerous to others. Firearms, weapons, and other dangerous or hazardous devices or substances are prohibited from the premises of Ivey’s without proper authorization.

Conduct that threatens, intimidates, or coerces another TM, a Customer, or a Member of the public at any time, including off-duty periods, will not be tolerated. This prohibition includes all acts of harassment, including harassment that is based on an individual’s sex, race, age, or any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

All threats of (or actual) violence, both direct and indirect, should be reported as soon as possible to your immediate Supervisor or any other member of Management. This includes threats by TM’s, as well as threats by customers, vendors, solicitors, or other members of the public. When reporting a threat of violence, you should be as specific and detailed as possible.

All suspicious individuals or activities should also be reported as soon as possible to a supervisor. Do not place yourself in peril. If you see or hear a commotion or disturbance near your workstation, do not try to intercede or see what is happening.

Ivey’s will promptly and thoroughly investigate all reports of threats of (or actual) violence and of suspicious individuals or activities. The identity of the individual making a report will be protected as much as is practical. In order to maintain workplace safety and the integrity of its investigation, Ivey’s may suspend TM’s, either with or without pay, pending investigation.

Anyone determined to be responsible for threats of (or actual) violence or other conduct that is in violation of these guidelines will be subject to prompt disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. Ivey’s encourages TM’s to bring their disputes or differences with other TM’s to the attention of their Supervisors or the General Manager before the situation escalates into potential violence. Ivey’s is eager to assist in the resolution of TM disputes, and will not discipline TM’s for raising such concerns.

Policy No. 522 Issued 1/1/2008 Applicable 8/24/2012