Sint-Truiden (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A recycling center worker in Sint-Truiden was threatened and injured with a pitchfork, sparking police investigation into the violent workplace assault.
The incident happened at the end of the workday last night. Three cars went through the exit into the park even though the entrance gate was already locked. One of the drivers responded violently when an employee came up to them. He hurt the worker’s hand and threatened him with a pitchfork. The city reaffirms its inability to accept hostility toward its workers.
On-site care was given for the worker’s injury. His foreman promptly notified the Belgium police zone of Sint-Truiden-Gingelom-Nieuwerkerken about the event. The event is being treated seriously by the local government.
“Our employees must be able to do their work in safe conditions, without fear of verbal or physical aggression,”
says Filip Moers, Alderman for Facility Management (Vooruit).
“Anyone who uses violence against staff crosses a line. We won’t let this happen.”
“Aggression has no place anywhere, especially not in public service,”
interjects Mayor Ludwig Vandenhove (Vooruit).
“We will always protect our people. We’re not going to stop here, and we’re taking further action against the person in question. For example, I’ll investigate whether we can deny this person access to the recycling center in the future.”
The city claims that verbal or physical violence against employees is on the rise. In order to prepare staff for such circumstances, the local government has created an aggression protocol.
“This concrete action plan must curb intolerable behavior, set clear boundaries, and create a climate of mutual respect. As a city, we continue to work to minimize the impact of aggression as much as possible,”
it said.
What security measures were in place at the recycling center at the time of the incident?
Visible cameras are installed around the facility to deter crime and monitor activity. Remote operators watch the cameras in real-time, can issue verbal warnings via onsite speakers, and alert law enforcement if suspicious behavior continues.
Facilities may have fences or barriers to restrict unauthorized entry. However, physical barriers alone may be bypassed without monitoring. Regular patrols by security personnel or firewatch help detect and prevent incidents.
Surveillance footage aids investigations and helps identify perpetrators post-incident.
