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Emplo~mjuries - Violence in the workplace is a modern day reality. Data from the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health indicate that homicide is now the second leading cause of occupational death (the number one leading cause for women). In fact, workplace violence is so prevalent that it is recognized by the US government as a public health hazard. The risk of violence is associated with specific workplace factors such as dealing with the public, the exchange of money and the delivery of services or goods. The source of violence may be customers/clients, co-workers or domestic violence that spills over into the workplace. Among those at greatest risk for such an event are employees who work in an environment where plans to prevent violent acts have not been implemented. County employees who are injured while performing their job duties may file workers compensation claims for their medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation and permanent disabilities. As the County is self-insured, the costs of these claims would be paid directly from County funds. Such injuries, whether they actually occur or whether employees perceive that they could occur, would also lead to indirect costs such as reduced morale, reduced productivity and poor public relations. In addition to the cost of workers compensation claim expenses, there could be civil liability. I noted with some concern a case recently decided by the Oregon Court of Appeals in which an employee successfully sued her employer for intentional infliction of emotional distress for failing to adequately protect her from a violent client and was awazded $1.5 million. Citizen injuries - Third parties who are injured as the result of an action or failure to act by the County may file a claim for damages. This is another area in which Marion County is self-insured and therefore, we would pay the costs of such claims direcdy from County funds. In addition, thcse claims may result in indirect costs such as poor public relations. OSHA citations - OR-OSHA rules require that employers provide workplaces which are free from known hazards. There is the possibility that fines could be issued against an employer who has identified or should have identified a security related safety hazard, but failed to act. Propertv damage or theft - The lack of security may invite theft or vandalism of County properiy. The County has insurance which may cover such losses above a$5,000 deductible. Losses up to the deductible would be paid directly from County funds. There could also be theft of or damage to employee property. While it is unlikely that the County would directly pay for these losses, there could be indirect costs to the County of reduced morale, reduced productivity and poor public relations.