Workplace Violence

Violence in the Workplace

Safety in the Workplace

By Chenee’ Brooks

Wilmington University

Violence in the Workplace

Introduction

Workplace Violence is a growing concern for employers across the globe. When most people think of workplace violence they automatically imagine an angry employee going nuts and shooting. Homicide is the second leading cause of death to American workers. However that is not always the case. This is because the media usually only shows these incidents so people assume that this is the only type of violence that occurs at work. Not only does it involve shooting but it could also be harassment, bullying, stalking, or verbal abuse. Workplace Violence can happen to anyone at anytime, nobody is safe. But there are ways that Human Resources can work to possibly prevent it from happening.

Background

Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against workers. It is violent acts, behavior, or threats that occur in the workplace or are related to it. Such acts are harmful or potentially harmful to people, property, or organizational capabilities (Occupational Safety and Health, p.277). Another definition of workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. It ranges from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and even homicide (Workplace Violence, pg. 1). According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workplace violence has emerged as a critical safety and health issue (Occupational Safety and Health, p.276). It normally consists of incidents where people are abused, threatened or assaulted in circumstances relating to their work, involving an explicit or implicit challenge to their safety, well-being or health. The problem is very serious in the US. Unfortunately it is not just a problem for Americans, it is a worldwide issue.

Warning Signs

The warning signs are not...