Dealing with Violence in the Workplace: Range of Violence

Every workplace has the potential for employee-to-employee violence. Violence may be directed at supervisors or peers. It can range from starting rumors or exchanging angry words to taking physical action. In rare cases, violence may even take the form of armed assault.

Threats

An employee may make direct or indirect threats against a coworker, the employer, or the work site. Threats may be communicated in person or through letters or phone calls.

Physical Action

In some cases, an employee may become physically aggressive. He or she may shove, trip, or punch a coworker. Other types of aggression, such as throwing files or coffee mugs, or sabotaging equipment, may also occur.

Armed Assault

In extreme cases, an employee may dwell on what he or she considers a work-related “injustice.” The employee may plan ways to retaliate, including armed violence or arson. If the plan is acted on, coworkers and work-site visitors may be harmed.

Warning Signs

Violent behavior rarely surfaces without warning. Before actually becoming violent, an employee may act anxious, defensive, or aggressive. He or she may make threats or overreact to a change in work policy. These employees often have a history of isolation, depression, family violence, or substance abuse. Many have an obsession with weapons.