Sexual Harassment and Violence Prevention in the Workplace for The dental Team
Workplace violence in dental offices is a significant issue, with 29–80% of dentists and dental team experiencing violence, primarily from patients, including verbal, physical, and reputational aggression. Over half of surveyed ADA members encounter aggressive patients, often stemming from pain, anxiety, or treatment costs. Key safety measures include staff training, incident reporting protocols, and clear, active de-escalation strategies.
$15 for a 3 day extension
Description
This course provides dental professionals with a comprehensive understanding of sexual harassment and workplace violence prevention within the unique environment of a dental practice. Participants will learn to recognize inappropriate behaviors, understand legal definitions and obligations, and implement proactive strategies to maintain a safe and respectful workplace.
The training covers federal laws, reporting procedures, documentation standards, and employer responsibilities. Emphasis is placed on communication, boundary setting, and leadership accountability. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to prevent, identify, and appropriately respond to incidents of harassment or violence. This course meets compliance requirements while also promoting a culture of safety, respect, and professionalism.
Teaching Methods: Lecture, scenario-based learning, and case study analysis.
Course Objectives:
- Define sexual harassment and workplace violence using EEOC and OSHA standards.
- Differentiate between quid pro quo and hostile work environment harassment with dental-specific examples.
- Identify at least three behaviors that constitute harassment or workplace violence in a dental practice setting.
- Explain appropriate reporting procedures and employer responsibilities under federal guidelines.
- Demonstrate appropriate responses to harassment or workplace violence scenarios within a dental practice setting.
- Apply at least two prevention strategies to reduce risk in a dental practice.
- Implement workplace strategies that promote a safe, compliant, and respectful dental practice environment.
Speaker:
Deborah McPhee is the owner of SALUS Training Systems, a division of McPhee Coaching, Inc., specializing in workplace compliance, leadership development, and healthcare training. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership from DePaul University, bringing both academic expertise and practical application to her work.
Deborah began her career in the dental industry as a dental assistant at age 17, later transitioning into dental sales before becoming an educator. This progression gives her a unique, comprehensive understanding of a dental practice from multiple perspectives. Her experience includes working with Sunstar GUM (Butler Toothbrushes) and BENCO Dental, which has given her deep insight into the dental industry nationwide.
She is a licensed CE sponsor in Illinois for workplace violence, domestic violence, and sexual harassment prevention training. Deborah has worked extensively with dental practices across the United States to improve compliance, reduce risk, and build strong workplace cultures. Deborah is also a published author and speaker focused on leadership in the dental clinic.
Conflicts of Interest: The speaker has no conflicts to disclose.
Original date: 5/11/26, Expiry date: 5/10/29
Disclaimer: As per ADA guidelines, participants must use caution when using limited knowledge in treating patients. It is always recommended to do further research. PLS is not responsible for the the information provided by the Presenter. The information provided is based on the Presenter’s research, experience and opinion and is not necessarily that of PLS.
This webinar is designated for the CEUs as indicated. Check your state’s CE regulations for course acceptance.
CE Provider: Professional Learning Services, LLC (PLS)
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*Interactivity provided with PLS’s Ask the Speaker feature included with recorded webinars.
Additional information
| Subscription Period | |
|---|---|
| CEUs | |
| Intended Audience | front desk staff and administration, Office managers, Dentists, Dental Hygienists and Dental Assistants |
| Teaching Method | |
| Course Materials |












