Understanding Workplace Violence

Workplace violence encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from verbal threats and harassment to physical assault and armed assailant incidents. It can stem from internal conflicts, external threats, domestic spill over or customer interactions. Common types of workplace violence include:

• Criminal Intent: Incidents where individuals with no connection to the workplace commit a violent act, such as robbery or trespassing.

• Worker-on-Worker Violence: Conflicts between employees that escalate into threats or physical altercations.

• Customer or Client Violence: Aggressive behavior from customers, clients, or patients directed toward employees.

• Personal Relationship Violence: Domestic disputes that spill into the workplace, affecting targeted employees and their colleagues.

Key Strategies for Workplace Violence Prevention

Businesses must implement a multi-layered and interdisciplinary approach to reduce the likelihood of violent incidents. The following strategies help create a safer workplace:

1. Risk Assessment and Security Audits

• Conduct regular security assessments to identify vulnerabilities.

• Engage a workplace violence consultant to review policies and provide expert recommendations.

• Analyze past incidents and industry-specific risks to refine security strategies.

2. Clear Workplace Violence Policies

• Develop a written workplace violence prevention policy outlining prohibited behaviors and reporting procedures. Zero tolerance is what AhrensSecurity recommends.

• Communicate policies clearly to all employees through handbooks, training sessions, and awareness.

• Ensure all employees understand the consequences of violent or threatening behavior.

• Have stringent weapons policies and provide direction in the event these are not followed

3. Employee Training and Awareness

• Provide training on recognizing early warning signs of violent behavior.

• Educate employees on de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution.

• Train staff on proper reporting procedures and encourage a culture of accountability.

• Train staff on how to respond to law enforcement responses

4. Access Control and Physical Security Measures

• Implement badge access systems to control entry points.

• Use surveillance cameras and security personnel to monitor high-risk areas.

• Designate secure spaces or panic rooms for emergency situations.

• Have egress plans created and trained too

• Have a plan to heighten security

5. Incident Reporting and Response Plans

• Establish clear procedures for reporting workplace violence threats or incidents.Ensure there are multiple ways to respond to an emergency

• Develop an emergency response plan, including lockdown procedures and evacuation routes.

• Conduct regular drills to ensure employees and management are prepared to respond effectively.

6. Threat Assessment and Intervention Teams

• Create a multidisciplinary team responsible for assessing threats and addressing potential risks.Have external resources on retainer to supplement the investigation or decision process.

• Include representatives from HR, security, and legal departments to evaluate concerns.

• Implement intervention strategies such as mediation, counseling, or law enforcement collaboration.

7. Post-Incident Support and Recovery

• Ensure there is insurance programs and the offer crisis consulting

• Offer counseling and support services for affected employees.

• Review and revise workplace violence prevention policies based on incident findings.

• Provide ongoing education and training to reinforce a culture of safety.

Legal Considerations and Compliance

Employers have a general duty of care to provide a safe working environment to all hazards under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation. Noncompliance with workplace violence prevention measures can result in legal liability, reputational damage, and financial losses.