Workplace violence is a significant occupational hazard that includes a range of harmful behaviors.
According to OSHA, workplace violence is “any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the worksite.” This broad definition includes everything from verbal threats to physical assaults and even homicide.
Statistics reveal the troubling reality of workplace violence:
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that over 14% of fatal occupational injuries result from intentional acts of violence, particularly in private industry.
- Approximately 2% of non-fatal workplace injuries requiring days away from work are caused by intentional harm.
Examples include shootings, stabbings, verbal abuse, intimidation, robberies, and physical altercations. These statistics underscore the importance of understanding and addressing workplace violence to protect employees and create safer environments.
Certain industries and occupations are at higher risk of workplace violence.
Workplace violence can affect anyone, but some jobs and industries face greater exposure to risk. High-risk sectors include:
- Healthcare and social services: Due to frequent interactions with individuals under stress or experiencing mental health issues.
- Retail and convenience stores: Particularly during evening or overnight shifts.
- Transportation and commuter services: Including taxi and delivery drivers.
- Law enforcement and security personnel: Due to the nature of their duties.
- Education: Teachers and staff are at risk of violence from students or parents.
The National Safety Council categorizes workplace violence into four main types:
- Criminal Intent: Incidents involving individuals with no legitimate relationship to the business, such as robberies.
- Customer/Client: Violence by clients, patients, or customers is common in healthcare and social services.
- Worker-on-Worker: Conflicts between colleagues or supervisors and employees.
- Personal Relationship: Incidents where the perpetrator has a personal relationship with the victim, such as domestic violence spilling into the workplace.
Workplace violence affects individuals regardless of gender, though data shows women are disproportionately affected by trauma while men are more likely to experience workplace violence-related fatalities.
Recognizing warning signs and risk factors helps prevent workplace violence.
Identifying behaviors that may escalate into violence is an essential step in prevention. While not every concerning behavior leads to violence, sure warning signs indicate increased risk:
- Acting out through yelling, slamming doors, or throwing objects.
- Avoiding responsibility or engaging in deceptive strategies.
- Exhibiting selfish behavior or disregard for others.
- Lacking social skills, flexibility, or the ability to see other perspectives.
Supporting employees’ emotional needs and addressing concerning behaviors early can prevent these tendencies from escalating into aggression or violence.
Workplace violence has far-reaching effects on individuals and organizations.
The consequences of workplace violence are diverse and can significantly impact employees and employers alike. Key effects include:
- Physical injuries and fatalities: These are the most visible outcomes of workplace violence.
- Psychological trauma: Victims and witnesses may experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress.
- Reduced morale: Affected teams often struggle with trust and productivity.
- Increased security costs: Organizations may need to invest in security measures following incidents.
- Property damage: Violent acts can result in costly repairs or replacements.
- Negative publicity: News of workplace violence can damage an organization’s reputation and affect recruitment and retention.
By understanding these consequences, employers can prioritize prevention and response strategies to minimize harm.
Control measures help prevent workplace violence and build a culture of safety.
Preventing workplace violence requires a multifaceted approach that includes engineering, administrative, and cultural controls:
Engineering Controls: Physical measures to enhance safety.
- Install security systems such as cameras, alarms, and metal detectors.
- Ensure proper lighting in all areas, including parking lots and corridors.
- Create designated de-escalation areas for managing potentially volatile situations.
- Establish clear exit routes to facilitate safe evacuations.
Administrative Controls: Policies and procedures to set expectations.
- Implement a zero-tolerance policy for threats, violence, and harassment.
- Track individuals with a history of violence, including employees, clients, or contractors.
- Avoid placing employees in isolated or low-security areas.
- It requires detailed documentation of incidents to identify patterns and prevent future occurrences.
Cultural Controls: Fostering mutual respect and communication.
- Provide training in conflict resolution, stress management, and de-escalation techniques.
- Encourage open communication about safety concerns without fear of retaliation.
- Promote a culture of mutual support and respect among employees.
These measures, tailored to an organization’s specific needs, can significantly reduce the risk of workplace violence.
All employees have a role to play in preventing workplace violence.
Preventing workplace violence isn’t the responsibility of one person or department—it requires collective effort.
Employee Responsibilities:
- Be aware of workplace policies and adhere to them.
- Report incidents or concerns to supervisors or safety teams.
- Cooperate with investigations to ensure thorough resolutions.
Management Responsibilities:
- Communicate workplace policies and expectations.
- Take reports seriously, investigate thoroughly, and document findings.
- Provide employees with training on de-escalation, stress management, and conflict resolution.
- Monitor for warning signs and intervene proactively to mitigate risks.
Other key personnel, such as safety managers, HR officers, and facilities teams, play vital roles in implementing and maintaining safety measures.
The next steps should ensure ongoing awareness and preparedness.
If you are unsure about your organization’s workplace violence prevention policies, take the initiative to learn more. Reach out to your supervisor or HR representative for information on:
- Risk factors and warning signs specific to your work environment.
- Reporting procedures, including tools for anonymous reporting.
- Additional training resources or opportunities for professional development.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and OSHA offer comprehensive resources to support workplace violence awareness and prevention efforts. This course explains workplace violence and practical measures to mitigate its risks. Consider enrolling in our Workplace Violence Awareness and Prevention Course for additional guidance, in-depth resources, and training materials tailored to your industry. Learn how to foster a safe and supportive environment, prevent incidents, and respond effectively when necessary. Take action today to protect yourself and your colleagues.
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