Scheduled maintenance - Thursday, July 12 at 5:00 PM EDT
We expect this update to take about an hour. Access to this website will be unavailable during this time.
Most people think of violence as a physical assault. However, workplace violence and harassment is a much broader problem. It is any act in which a person is abused, threatened, intimidated or assaulted in his or her employment.
Rumours, swearing, verbal abuse, harassment, pranks, arguments, property damage, vandalism, sabotage, pushing, theft, physical assaults, psychological trauma, anger-related incidents, rape, arson and murder are all examples of workplace violence.
NOTE: In this document, we use the term violence to also include bullying and harassment
Please refer to the following OSH Answers documents for information:
You must remember that it can be very difficult to know when a person is going to be violent. While not all people will show the following signs, these types of behaviours and physical signs can serve as warning signs that a situation could turn violent. Always take these behaviours "in context". Look for multiple warning signs and for signs of escalation (the behaviours are getting worse).
If you are concerned about a person who shows some or all of the identified characteristics, take action. Report your concern to your supervisor, or human resources department.
It is much easier to prevent violence by recognising the signs and trying to stop small incidents than trying to deal with the aftermath of a major crisis.
It is extremely important to understand that the following behaviours do not mean a person will become violent, but they may indicate that the person is experiencing high levels of stress. Each situation is unique and professional judgement or outside assistance may be necessary to determine if intervention is necessary.
Always take particular note if:
Warning signs include:
Sometimes it is not what a person says, but what their body is "doing". Use caution if you see someone who shows one or more of the following "non-verbal" signs or body language.
In some cases, there has been a clear pattern of warning signs before a violent incident. When you can, take note of:
History of violence
Threatening behaviour
Intimidating behaviour
Increase in personal stress
Negative personality characteristics
Marked changes in mood or behaviour
Socially isolated
Abuses substances, such as drugs or alcohol
Take action, especially if you feel your safety or the safety of others is threatened.
Follow your workplace’s policy and procedures for responding to violence and harassment, including reporting by witnesses.
If you are a worker, you can also report your concerns to your supervisor, human resources department, or the person designated by your organization. You can also get advice from your employee assistance program (EAP) if you have one.