Judith Perlstein Advocates For Safety in the Workplace

Boston University School of Social Work Associate Director of Field Education and Clinical Associate Professor Judith Perlstein had never testified before policymakers until she heard about the proposed legislation H592/S1206, “An Act to Promote Public Health Through Workplace Safety for Social Workers.” After several assaults and, in some cases, murder, involving social workers and clinicians in Massachusetts, Kentucky, and West Virginia, this new legislation for safety in the workplace was prompted. Perlstein recognized the importance of emphasizing the safety of social workers and attended a hearing in hopes of getting the Massachusetts state legislation passed, as there is currently no legislation in place to protect social workers in the workplace. This is one of the outcomes of the NASW Safety Task Force that she co-chaired.

“We need a comprehensive solution,” said Perlstein, “not a quick fix.”

BUSSW has taken a leadership position on this issue. The School has revised its safety policies and training practices for students. The School also administers student training and workshops at orientation to introduce the concept of workplace safety. These workshops train students how to assess a potentially violent situation and deescalate a situation all within the framework of social work. Perlstein added that it would be good to hold ongoing workshops to keep students informed, but the challenge is finding the time.