What are the key things that social workers need to do to ensure their safety and client safety?

Social workers should be well trained in the use of their agency’s risk assessment instrument and supervised to ensure consistency in practice. When a risk is identified, a safety plan must be created and adapted as necessary throughout the case planning and a plan of action to reduce or minimize that risk implemented.

What is social work safety?

Part of NASW’s mission is to promote, develop, and protect the practice of social work and social workers. In alignment with this mission, NASW establishes professional standards, guidelines and resources to support quality social work practice.

How do you keep a social worker safe?

Remain calm and respectful with your clients. Do not raise your voice. Speak to them in an understanding manner, but maintain your authority and firmness should the situation call for it. Do not let them know if you are scared.

What are some hazards of being a social worker?

In the majority of instances across the social-work spectrum, the risks include physical endangerment, stress-related illnesses and the risk of worsening a client’s situation….Common stress-related illnesses among social workers include:

• Chronic fatigue.
• PTSD.
• Generalized anxiety disorders.
• Depression.

What are the dangers of being a social worker?

Social workers are often engaging in risky situations without proper safety training, a partner or limited safety equipment. Unfortunately, too many social workers have been the targets of verbal and physical assaults and some have even tragically lost their lives while performing their job responsibilities.

What are the safety guidelines for social workers?

9 Guidelines for Social Worker Safety in the Workplace 9 Standard 1. Organizational Culture of Safety and Security 11 Standard 2. Prevention 12 Standard 3. Office Safety 13 Standard 4. Use of Safety Technology 15 Standard 5. Use of Mobile Phones 16 Standard 6. Risk Assessment for Field Visits 19 Standard 7. Transporting Clients 20 Standard 8.

What kind of environments do social workers work in?

Every day social workers across this country provide a wide range of services in increasingly complex environments including child welfare agencies, schools, mental health centers and hospitals. Safety can be a concern in many of these settings.

How often is a social worker killed in the line of duty?

Concerns related to the safety of social workers are brought to the attention of the public each time social worker is killed “in the line of duty.” This is a critical issue to the National Association of Social Workers and its 55 chapters.