Traliant, a leader in online compliance training, has released its new study, “The Retail Report: Traliant’s 2024 Workplace Violence Prevention Pulse Survey.” Drawing insights from over 500 full-time U.S. retail employees, the report examines workplace safety perceptions and violence prevention practices. It highlights significant generational differences in reporting unsafe situations, emphasizing the need for tailored prevention strategies.
- Key Findings from the Report
- Generational Differences in Reporting:
- 49% of Gen Z retail workers prefer anonymous reporting of unsafe situations.
- Only 19% of Baby Boomers would opt for anonymous reporting, with 78% willing to attach their name to reports.
- Incidence of Workplace Violence:
- 38% of Gen Z retail workers have witnessed workplace violence in the past five years, compared to:
- 13% of Baby Boomers
- 20% of Gen X
- 22% of Millennials
- 38% of Gen Z retail workers have witnessed workplace violence in the past five years, compared to:
- Generational Differences in Reporting:
- Employer Support and Safety Culture
- Only 38% of retail employees feel their employers are extremely supportive in fostering a “speak-up culture” that promotes reporting misconduct without fear of retaliation.
- Retail workers overwhelmingly (94%) support the adoption of workplace violence prevention laws similar to New York’s Retail Worker Safety Act in other states.
- Legislative Developments
- New York’s Retail Worker Safety Act mandates:
- Employers with over 10 retail employees to implement a workplace violence prevention policy.
- Completion of initial annual training by March 2025.
- Anticipated nationwide trends: State-level momentum for workplace violence prevention legislation is expected to increase, reinforcing the need for proactive compliance measures.
- New York’s Retail Worker Safety Act mandates:
- Enhancing Prevention Strategies
- Tailored Training: Address generational differences in reporting preferences and awareness.
- Speak-Up Culture: Strengthen organizational support to promote employee confidence in reporting misconduct.
- Proactive Measures: Implement robust prevention training to align with legal requirements and protect employees.
- Awareness and Skills Development: Equip employees with the knowledge and skills to manage challenging situations effectively.
Traliant’s 2024 Workplace Violence Prevention Pulse Survey reveals critical gaps in workplace violence training and reporting within the retail industry. Employers must address generational differences, strengthen support systems, and adopt comprehensive prevention strategies to ensure safer environments. With increasing legislative momentum, proactive compliance is no longer optional—it is essential for fostering secure and supportive workplaces.
