Advance planning for workplace violence.

Violence in the workplace is a disturbing trend that continues to draw media attention. However, long after the television cameras are gone and the carnage and debris have been cleared, employers. families, and communities must continue to repair the psychological damage created by violent acts and tragedies.

Human resource managers must play active roles to help workers and their families cope with disaster and bloodshed. "Although many businesses have taken measures to prevent workplace violence, nothing can prepare organizations for an act as heinous and overwhelming as the recent bombing in Oklahoma City," notes Michael R. Losey, president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

Effective reaction begins before tragedy strikes, he points out. This means the creation of a crisis management team and education and training programs for employees and managers. "An established crisis management team, which has been trained to anticipate the needs of a workforce after a crisis, gives employees a sense of stability and security. Survivors often feel distrustful and abandoned, and it's important for employers to be compassionate during such difficult times. Employers can best do this by providing as many explanations as possible and by encouraging communications at all levels."

After a workplace crisis, management must help bring survivors together and allow them to get their feelings out. "This...