Safety Policies

Workplace Violence

Northwestern Health Sciences University is committed to maintaining a safe workplace free from of all forms of violence, including verbal or physical threats, as well as other forms of intimidation, such as sexual violence, sexual harassment or abusive language.  As part of this commitment, the University takes a “zero tolerance” posture with regard to any actions that threaten its employees, non-employees, students, patients/clients, vendors or other members of the University’s community.  This includes verbal and physical harassment, verbal and physical threats, sexual violence, assault or abuse such as rape, acquaintance rape, or other forms of non-consensual sexual activity, verbal confrontations, and any actions that cause others to feel unsafe or threatened in the workplace, including abuse or destruction of property. 

The University offers educational programs to promote the awareness of rape, acquaintance rape and other sex offenses. Information can be obtained by contacting the Student Affairs office.

Employees who are aware of others involved in any of these practices or who observe a situation of potential or actual workplace violence must immediately report it to their supervisor, Human Resources or a member of management.  Victims of sexual violence should first seek safety, contact law enforcement authorities and a supportive person/advocate.  They must not disturb the evidence until a report has been filed. They are strongly encouraged to seek medical care to protect their health.

In addition, employees are strictly prohibited from possessing, using, storing or transporting weapons in the University’s buildings. This includes all firearms (shotguns, rifles, pistols), pellet guns, paint ball guns, explosives, switchblade knives or fixed blade knives with a blade length of four (4) inches or greater.

No employee should bring any item on the premises that would violate any University policy. NWHSU must reserve the right to inspect, with or without notice for any business reason, all persons’ packages, automobiles and other items that come onto University premises to ensure compliance with policies. The University also reserves the right to inspect all University property, with or without notice. 

All allegations will be investigated promptly. Retaliation against an individual for making a good faith report of behavior contrary to this policy will not be tolerated.  Employees who violate this policy will be subject to corrective action, up to and including dismissal.