NEW! UC Davis Health Workplace Violence Prevention Responder Training

Beginning July 1, 2026, the UC Davis Workplace Violence Prevention Program, in partnership with the UC Office of the President, will launch a new eight-hour Responder Training. This updated program replaces CPI-based curriculum and physical intervention training with Gracie Medical Defense (GMD), a nationally recognized, healthcare-focused system designed specifically for managing workplace violence incidents in clinical and non-clinical environments coupled with a curriculum surrounding de-escalation developed by UC systemwide subject matter experts.

The multidisciplinary, Cal/OSHA-compliant training combines a high-level review of required e-learning content, scenario-based exercises, and hands-on GMD instruction. The program reinforces a prevention-first approach, emphasizing situational awareness, early recognition of escalating behaviors, and verbal de-escalation techniques as the primary response strategy. When physical intervention becomes necessary to protect staff, patients, or visitors, GMD provides safe, practical, and evidence-informed techniques focused on control, disengagement, and injury prevention.

GMD serves as a strong replacement for CPI because it is specifically tailored to the realities of healthcare settings, where staff may encounter unpredictable, combative, or assaultive behaviors. The curriculum focuses on simple, effective skills that can be retained and applied under stress, while minimizing the risk of injury to both responders and the individuals involved. Additionally, GMD emphasizes team-based responses, real-world clinical scenarios, and techniques that align with contemporary workplace violence prevention best practices.

The training's tiered structure allows organizations to align responder preparedness with varying risk levels across both clinical and non-clinical environments, ensuring employees receive training appropriate to their roles and potential exposure to workplace violence. Through this enhanced program, UC continues its commitment to providing employees with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to maintain a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff.

The Workplace Violence Department is excited to offer this newly developed training program and continue the partnership with our responder and patient support staff colleagues, providing a safer, more collaborative, and harmonious working environment.