home | on the job | helpful articles

Violence in the Workplace

We live in a world where violence is a common phenomenon. It is not surprising that violence at work is also on the rise. Many individuals are increasingly experiencing assaults, threats, verbal abuse and other forms of violence at work. How can you, as an employee protect yourself from violence at work?

What do we mean by workplace violence?

Most likely, you' ve heard or read about workplace shooting rampages. While the chances of ever witnessing a homicide at work are remote, it is important to understand that workplace violence includes many forms, homicide being the extreme. Assaults, threats and harassment are other forms of violence.

There are three types of violence: attacks, threats, and harassment.

·        Attack--to attack is to use force against another in order to harm or inflict harm

·        Threat--threats involve an expression of one s intention to inflict injury or harm

·        Harassment--harassment involves behaviors that are designed to trouble or worry the victim</I>

All forms of violence are damaging. When we feel threatened, we cannot focus at work. The damage cause by a physical assault may be obvious, but evidence from medical science demonstrates that threats and harassment can also leave us emotionally injured and physically ill. Additionally, those who commit murder or [physical assaults in the workplace often engage in threats and harassing behaviors before violent erupting. While threats and harassment alone can be harmful, they also can be warning signs to possible greater violence.

Protecting yourself from physical assault

The best protection to avoid physical assault is to be aware of the warning signs. Verbal threats and/or physical warning signs precede most every act of physical violence.

Warning signs in individuals that may precede workplace violence:

·        Emotionally disturbed status

·        Extreme stress in personal life circumstances and/or job

·        Alcohol or drug abuse

·        Frequent disputes with supervisors

·        Routine violation of company policies or rules

·        Sexual and other harassment of co-workers

·        Threats of violence

·        Preoccupation with weapons

·        Minimal support system

(Source: National Safe Workplace Violence)

What to do if you are harassed threatened or assaulted at work

1.      Report harassment, threats or physical assault immediately to the appropriate management. All forms of violence are damaging and must be prevented. Early intervention is the key to keeping a potential problem from getting out of hand.

2.      If you; re not sure who to speak to within your company, contact an employee assistance program counselor for assistance. All EAP services are strictly confidential and EAP counselors can help you get the right help for your specific situation.

Scope of workplace violence

One out of four employees was harassed, threatened or attacked.

·        Two million workers were physically attacked

·        Six million workers were threatened

·        Sixteen million were harassed

(Source: Annual estimate based on Northwestern National Life Insurance Survey)

(Used with permission from Metropolitan Family Services EAP)