🛡
Workplace Violence Prevention
Recognize, Report, Respond
⏱
15 minutes
📚
Occupational Health Path
✓
OSHA/DHS Guidelines
Katie, Your Safety Guide
Welcome! Workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening behavior that occurs at work. It affects nearly 2 million workers annually in the U.S. Workplace violence can happen to anyone—in offices, schools, hospitals, retail stores, and factories. The good news? Most workplace violence is preventable when employees recognize warning signs, know how to de-escalate conflicts, and understand emergency response procedures. Let's learn how to create a safer workplace together!
Slide 2 of 15
Understanding Workplace Violence
Workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site.
🚨 Workplace Violence Statistics
According to OSHA and Bureau of Justice Statistics:
- Nearly 2 million workers report being victims of workplace violence annually
- 20% of violent crimes occur at work or while working
- Homicide is 5th leading cause of workplace deaths
- Healthcare workers experience the highest rates (assaults are 5x more common than in other industries)
- Most incidents are preventable with proper awareness and procedures
- Many incidents go unreported—actual numbers are likely much higher
💡 What Counts as Workplace Violence?
Workplace violence includes:
- Physical assaults (hitting, pushing, kicking, weapons)
- Verbal threats of harm ("I'm going to hurt you")
- Harassment and intimidation (stalking, bullying, following)
- Threatening gestures or behavior
- Vandalism or property damage meant to intimidate
- Written or electronic threats (emails, texts, social media)
- Domestic violence that spills into the workplace
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the four types of workplace violence
- Recognize early warning signs of potential violence
- Apply de-escalation techniques to defuse conflicts
- Know how to respond to active threats (Run, Hide, Fight)
- Report threats and concerning behavior appropriately
- Create personal safety awareness habits
Slide 3 of 15
Four Types of Workplace Violence
Understanding the categories
OSHA categorizes workplace violence into four types based on the relationship between the perpetrator and the workplace.
Type I: Criminal Intent
Who: Person has no legitimate relationship to the business or employees. Enters to commit a crime (robbery, theft, trespassing).
Examples: Armed robbery at convenience store or bank. Burglar confronting employee working late. Active shooter with no connection to workplace.
High-risk: Retail, late-night businesses, taxi drivers, workers who handle cash, isolated workers.
Most common in: Retail, convenience stores, gas stations, security.
Examples: Armed robbery at convenience store or bank. Burglar confronting employee working late. Active shooter with no connection to workplace.
High-risk: Retail, late-night businesses, taxi drivers, workers who handle cash, isolated workers.
Most common in: Retail, convenience stores, gas stations, security.
Type II: Customer/Client
Who: Customer, client, patient, student, inmate—someone who has legitimate relationship with business.
Examples: Patient assaults nurse or doctor. Student threatens teacher. Customer attacks retail worker. Angry client assaults social worker.
High-risk: Healthcare, education, social services, public safety, customer service roles.
Most common type in healthcare settings. Often involves people under stress, in pain, intoxicated, or mentally ill.
Examples: Patient assaults nurse or doctor. Student threatens teacher. Customer attacks retail worker. Angry client assaults social worker.
High-risk: Healthcare, education, social services, public safety, customer service roles.
Most common type in healthcare settings. Often involves people under stress, in pain, intoxicated, or mentally ill.
Type III: Worker-on-Worker
Who: Current or former employee attacks or threatens another employee, supervisor, or manager.
Examples: Disgruntled employee threatens coworker. Recently fired employee returns with weapon. Supervisor and employee physical altercation. Bullying between coworkers.
Often preceded by: Disciplinary action, termination, workplace conflict, perceived unfair treatment.
Warning signs often present—escalating conflicts, threats, concerning behavior before violence occurs.
Examples: Disgruntled employee threatens coworker. Recently fired employee returns with weapon. Supervisor and employee physical altercation. Bullying between coworkers.
Often preceded by: Disciplinary action, termination, workplace conflict, perceived unfair treatment.
Warning signs often present—escalating conflicts, threats, concerning behavior before violence occurs.
Type IV: Personal Relationship
Who: Person has relationship with employee but not the workplace (domestic partner, family member, acquaintance).
Examples: Abusive spouse/partner comes to workplace to threaten or harm employee. Stalker follows employee to work. Family member attacks employee at workplace.
Domestic violence spillover: Employee may be victim of domestic abuse that follows them to work.
Often unpredictable because perpetrator's relationship is with employee, not employer. Requires employee to report concerns.
Examples: Abusive spouse/partner comes to workplace to threaten or harm employee. Stalker follows employee to work. Family member attacks employee at workplace.
Domestic violence spillover: Employee may be victim of domestic abuse that follows them to work.
Often unpredictable because perpetrator's relationship is with employee, not employer. Requires employee to report concerns.
⚠ Why Categories Matter
Understanding which type of violence you might face helps determine:
• What preventive measures are most effective
• What warning signs to look for
• How to respond appropriately
• What security measures your workplace should have
All types are serious and require response—none should be ignored or downplayed.
• What preventive measures are most effective
• What warning signs to look for
• How to respond appropriately
• What security measures your workplace should have
All types are serious and require response—none should be ignored or downplayed.
Slide 4 of 15
Warning Signs of Potential Violence
Recognizing red flags
Most workplace violence doesn't happen without warning. Recognizing early warning signs allows intervention before violence occurs.
🗣 Verbal Threats
Direct threats: "I'm going to hurt you." Veiled threats: "You'll be sorry." "People like you deserve what's coming." Threatening to harm themselves or others. Even "joking" threats should be taken seriously.
😡 Intense Anger
Sudden outbursts, explosive temper. Rage disproportionate to situation. Inability to calm down or be reasoned with. Holding grudges, seeking revenge, obsessing over perceived wrongs.
🔨 Aggressive Behavior
Intimidating or bullying behavior. Invading personal space. Aggressive gestures (finger pointing, fist clenching). Destroying property, slamming objects. Physical altercations, pushing, shoving.
🔫 Fascination with Violence
Obsession with weapons. Talking about mass shootings, violence. Bringing weapons to work (even if not threatening with them). Violent fantasies or drawings.
🚩 Concerning Changes
Sudden personality changes. Increased isolation or withdrawal. Significant decline in work performance. Hygiene or appearance deterioration. Erratic or bizarre behavior.
🍺 Substance Abuse
Signs of alcohol or drug use at work. Impairment affecting judgment. Erratic behavior related to substance use. Increased risk-taking.
😔 Desperation/Crisis
Recent major life stressors (divorce, death, job loss). Financial desperation. "Nothing to lose" attitude. Giving away possessions (suicide warning). Talking about life being over.
👁 Stalking/Obsession
Following or monitoring someone. Unwanted repeated contact. Obsessive focus on coworker or supervisor. Refusal to accept boundaries or rejection.
🚨 CRITICAL: Report Warning Signs
If you observe warning signs, report them immediately to:
• Your supervisor or manager
• HR department
• Security
• Anonymous tip line (if available)
Don't assume someone else will report it. Don't wait for "proof" or for something to happen. Report concerning behavior now—it could prevent violence later.
You will NOT get in trouble for reporting genuine concerns in good faith, even if nothing comes of it.
• Your supervisor or manager
• HR department
• Security
• Anonymous tip line (if available)
Don't assume someone else will report it. Don't wait for "proof" or for something to happen. Report concerning behavior now—it could prevent violence later.
You will NOT get in trouble for reporting genuine concerns in good faith, even if nothing comes of it.
⚠ One Sign Doesn't Mean Violence is Imminent
Most people who display one warning sign won't become violent. However, multiple warning signs or escalating behavior significantly increase risk. Report patterns and changes—let trained professionals assess the threat level.
Slide 5 of 15
De-Escalation Techniques
Defusing conflicts before they become violent
De-escalation means using verbal and non-verbal communication to calm an agitated person and reduce the intensity of a conflict.
1
Stay Calm and Project Calm
Control your own emotions and body language: Take deep breaths. Keep your voice calm, steady, and low-pitched. Slow down your movements. Don't match their agitation—your calm can be contagious. If you're too emotionally invested, get someone else to handle it.
2
Respect Personal Space
Maintain safe distance: Stay 3-6 feet away (more if they're agitated). Don't corner the person or block their exit. Keep your hands visible and non-threatening (at your sides, palms open). Avoid sudden movements. Position yourself at an angle, not directly facing them.
3
Listen Actively
Show you're listening: Make eye contact but don't stare (can feel threatening). Nod to show understanding. Let them vent without interrupting. Use phrases like "I hear you" or "I understand you're frustrated." People often calm down when they feel heard.
4
Acknowledge Their Feelings
Validate emotions (not necessarily actions): "I can see you're very upset." "I understand this is frustrating." Don't minimize their feelings with "Calm down" or "It's not a big deal." You can acknowledge feelings without agreeing with their position.
5
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Help them articulate concerns: "Can you tell me what happened?" "What would help resolve this?" Open questions invite conversation. Avoid "why" questions (can sound accusatory). Give them time to answer—don't rush.
6
Offer Solutions or Alternatives
Focus on what you CAN do: "Here's what I can do to help..." Give them choices when possible (increases sense of control). Be honest about what you can't do. Suggest next steps or who else can help. Set boundaries if needed: "I want to help, but I need you to lower your voice."
❌ What NOT to Do When De-Escalating
AVOID these actions that escalate conflict:
• Arguing or contradicting: "You're wrong" makes them defensive
• Being dismissive: "Just calm down" or "You're overreacting"
• Touching the person: Can be perceived as threatening or controlling
• Invading personal space: Makes them feel trapped or threatened
• Raising your voice or matching their volume: Escalates tension
• Making threats or ultimatums: Increases desperation
• Challenging or mocking: "What are you going to do about it?"
• Using aggressive body language: Pointing, crossing arms, invading space
• Focusing on who's right: Focus on resolving the situation, not winning
• Arguing or contradicting: "You're wrong" makes them defensive
• Being dismissive: "Just calm down" or "You're overreacting"
• Touching the person: Can be perceived as threatening or controlling
• Invading personal space: Makes them feel trapped or threatened
• Raising your voice or matching their volume: Escalates tension
• Making threats or ultimatums: Increases desperation
• Challenging or mocking: "What are you going to do about it?"
• Using aggressive body language: Pointing, crossing arms, invading space
• Focusing on who's right: Focus on resolving the situation, not winning
⚠ When De-Escalation Isn't Working
If the person is escalating despite your efforts:
• Get help—call supervisor, security, or 911
• Create distance—back away slowly, don't turn your back
• Remove yourself from the situation if you feel unsafe
• Alert others nearby to the threat
• Your safety is more important than resolving the conflict
Don't be a hero. Some situations require professional intervention (security, police, mental health crisis team).
• Get help—call supervisor, security, or 911
• Create distance—back away slowly, don't turn your back
• Remove yourself from the situation if you feel unsafe
• Alert others nearby to the threat
• Your safety is more important than resolving the conflict
Don't be a hero. Some situations require professional intervention (security, police, mental health crisis team).
Slide 6 of 15
Conflict Resolution at Work
Preventing conflicts from escalating
Most workplace violence starts with unresolved conflict. Learning healthy conflict resolution prevents escalation.
✓ Healthy Conflict Resolution Skills
When you have conflict with a coworker:
1. Address it early: Don't let resentment build. Small issues are easier to resolve than big ones.
2. Use "I" statements: "I feel frustrated when..." instead of "You always..." Focuses on your feelings, not attacking them.
3. Focus on behavior, not personality: "When meetings start late, it affects my schedule" not "You're so disorganized and inconsiderate."
4. Listen to their perspective: Try to understand their viewpoint even if you disagree. There are usually two sides to every conflict.
5. Look for common ground: What do you both want? Can you find a solution that works for everyone?
6. Involve a mediator if needed: Supervisor, HR, or neutral third party can help facilitate resolution.
7. Let some things go: Not every disagreement needs to be "won." Choose your battles.
1. Address it early: Don't let resentment build. Small issues are easier to resolve than big ones.
2. Use "I" statements: "I feel frustrated when..." instead of "You always..." Focuses on your feelings, not attacking them.
3. Focus on behavior, not personality: "When meetings start late, it affects my schedule" not "You're so disorganized and inconsiderate."
4. Listen to their perspective: Try to understand their viewpoint even if you disagree. There are usually two sides to every conflict.
5. Look for common ground: What do you both want? Can you find a solution that works for everyone?
6. Involve a mediator if needed: Supervisor, HR, or neutral third party can help facilitate resolution.
7. Let some things go: Not every disagreement needs to be "won." Choose your battles.
⚠ When to Escalate Conflicts
Involve supervision or HR when:
• Conflict involves harassment, discrimination, or bullying
• You've tried to resolve it directly and it continues
• The other person becomes threatening or aggressive
• Conflict is affecting work performance or team morale
• You feel unsafe or intimidated
• It involves policy violations
Don't suffer in silence—get help before conflicts become dangerous!
• Conflict involves harassment, discrimination, or bullying
• You've tried to resolve it directly and it continues
• The other person becomes threatening or aggressive
• Conflict is affecting work performance or team morale
• You feel unsafe or intimidated
• It involves policy violations
Don't suffer in silence—get help before conflicts become dangerous!
🚨 Workplace Bullying
Bullying is repeated, intentional harmful behavior that creates hostile work environment:
• Verbal abuse, insults, humiliation
• Sabotaging someone's work
• Spreading rumors or gossip
• Excluding or isolating someone
• Unreasonable criticism or blame
• Intimidation or threats
Bullying is NOT acceptable and can escalate to violence. Report it to HR or supervisor. Document incidents (dates, witnesses, what happened). Many workplaces have anti-bullying policies.
• Verbal abuse, insults, humiliation
• Sabotaging someone's work
• Spreading rumors or gossip
• Excluding or isolating someone
• Unreasonable criticism or blame
• Intimidation or threats
Bullying is NOT acceptable and can escalate to violence. Report it to HR or supervisor. Document incidents (dates, witnesses, what happened). Many workplaces have anti-bullying policies.
Slide 7 of 15
Active Threat Response: Run, Hide, Fight
Department of Homeland Security protocol
In an active shooter or violent threat situation, your survival depends on rapid decision-making and action. The Department of Homeland Security recommends the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol.
🏃
RUN
If there's a way out, evacuate immediately.
• Have an escape route and plan in mind
• Leave belongings behind
• Help others escape if possible
• Don't let others slow you down
• Keep hands visible to police
• Call 911 when safe
• Don't return until police clear area
• Have an escape route and plan in mind
• Leave belongings behind
• Help others escape if possible
• Don't let others slow you down
• Keep hands visible to police
• Call 911 when safe
• Don't return until police clear area
🚪
HIDE
If you can't evacuate safely, find a hiding place.
• Lock and barricade doors
• Turn off lights
• Silence phones (completely off, not vibrate)
• Hide behind large objects
• Remain very quiet
• Spread out if in group
• Stay hidden until police arrive
• Lock and barricade doors
• Turn off lights
• Silence phones (completely off, not vibrate)
• Hide behind large objects
• Remain very quiet
• Spread out if in group
• Stay hidden until police arrive
✊
FIGHT
As a last resort, when your life is in imminent danger, fight.
• Commit to your actions
• Act with aggression
• Use improvised weapons
• Throw items at attacker
• Attack vulnerable areas
• Work together if in group
• Incapacitate the threat
• Commit to your actions
• Act with aggression
• Use improvised weapons
• Throw items at attacker
• Attack vulnerable areas
• Work together if in group
• Incapacitate the threat
🚨 When You Hear Gunshots or See a Threat
Immediate actions:
1. ASSESS: Quickly determine if you can safely escape. Can you get out without encountering the threat?
2. RUN if possible: Don't waste time gathering belongings. Run in the opposite direction from the threat. Use exits, windows, whatever works. Once safe, call 911.
3. HIDE if you can't run: Get to a lockable room. Lock/barricade door with furniture. Turn off lights and electronics. Get down, stay quiet, and wait for police.
4. FIGHT only as last resort: If the shooter finds you and you have no other option, fight for your life with everything you have. Survival instinct takes over—be aggressive and committed.
Your goal is survival, not heroism. Do what you need to do to stay alive!
1. ASSESS: Quickly determine if you can safely escape. Can you get out without encountering the threat?
2. RUN if possible: Don't waste time gathering belongings. Run in the opposite direction from the threat. Use exits, windows, whatever works. Once safe, call 911.
3. HIDE if you can't run: Get to a lockable room. Lock/barricade door with furniture. Turn off lights and electronics. Get down, stay quiet, and wait for police.
4. FIGHT only as last resort: If the shooter finds you and you have no other option, fight for your life with everything you have. Survival instinct takes over—be aggressive and committed.
Your goal is survival, not heroism. Do what you need to do to stay alive!
⚠ When Law Enforcement Arrives
Police are trained to stop the threat first, then help victims:
• Keep hands visible and empty (drop anything you're holding)
• Follow all commands immediately
• Don't make sudden movements or scream
• Don't approach or grab officers
• They may point guns at you—this is normal procedure until situation is cleared
• Provide information when asked (where is shooter, description, weapons, victims)
• Don't leave until police say it's safe—there may be multiple threats
• Keep hands visible and empty (drop anything you're holding)
• Follow all commands immediately
• Don't make sudden movements or scream
• Don't approach or grab officers
• They may point guns at you—this is normal procedure until situation is cleared
• Provide information when asked (where is shooter, description, weapons, victims)
• Don't leave until police say it's safe—there may be multiple threats
Slide 8 of 15
Know Your Escape Routes
Preparation saves lives
In an emergency, you won't have time to figure out how to escape. Know your options before you need them.
✓ Everyday Situational Awareness
Every time you enter a building or room:
1. Identify ALL exits:
• Primary exit (main door you came in)
• Secondary exits (side doors, back exits, emergency exits)
• Tertiary exits (windows, access to roof, connecting rooms)
• Don't assume the way you came in is the way you'll leave
2. Note where you can hide:
• Lockable rooms (bathrooms, offices, closets)
• Rooms with solid doors and minimal windows
• Heavy furniture you can use as barricade
• Places to hide if you can't lock a door
3. Observe your surroundings:
• Who is entering/exiting the building
• Anything unusual or out of place
• Where other people are located
• Objects that could be used as weapons if needed (fire extinguisher, chairs, scissors)
4. Position yourself strategically:
• In meetings, sit near an exit if possible
• Keep phone with you and charged
• Don't block your own escape route with bags/belongings
• Face the entrance so you see people coming
1. Identify ALL exits:
• Primary exit (main door you came in)
• Secondary exits (side doors, back exits, emergency exits)
• Tertiary exits (windows, access to roof, connecting rooms)
• Don't assume the way you came in is the way you'll leave
2. Note where you can hide:
• Lockable rooms (bathrooms, offices, closets)
• Rooms with solid doors and minimal windows
• Heavy furniture you can use as barricade
• Places to hide if you can't lock a door
3. Observe your surroundings:
• Who is entering/exiting the building
• Anything unusual or out of place
• Where other people are located
• Objects that could be used as weapons if needed (fire extinguisher, chairs, scissors)
4. Position yourself strategically:
• In meetings, sit near an exit if possible
• Keep phone with you and charged
• Don't block your own escape route with bags/belongings
• Face the entrance so you see people coming
💡 Make a Personal Emergency Plan
Think through scenarios before they happen:
• If I hear gunshots right now, what would I do?
• What's my primary escape route? Backup route?
• Where would I hide if I can't escape?
• Who do I need to alert (family members expecting me)?
• Where is my phone? Is it charged?
• Where's the nearest safe assembly point outside?
This mental preparation helps you react faster in an actual emergency when panic sets in.
• If I hear gunshots right now, what would I do?
• What's my primary escape route? Backup route?
• Where would I hide if I can't escape?
• Who do I need to alert (family members expecting me)?
• Where is my phone? Is it charged?
• Where's the nearest safe assembly point outside?
This mental preparation helps you react faster in an actual emergency when panic sets in.
⚠ Don't Be Complacent
Many people think "It won't happen here" or "I don't need to worry about that." Workplace violence can happen anywhere—offices, schools, hospitals, retail stores, factories.
Being prepared doesn't mean living in fear. It means being ready to act if something happens, so you're not frozen by panic and indecision.
Being prepared doesn't mean living in fear. It means being ready to act if something happens, so you're not frozen by panic and indecision.
Slide 9 of 15
Reporting Threats and Concerns
See something, say something
Most workplace violence is preventable when warning signs are reported early.
🚨 When to Report Immediately
Report these situations RIGHT NOW (don't wait):
• Direct threats: "I'm going to hurt you/kill you/shoot up this place"
• Weapons at work: Someone brings a weapon or talks about bringing one
• Physical violence: Assault, pushing, hitting, restraining
• Stalking or harassment: Following, repeated unwanted contact, intimidation
• Domestic violence at work: Abusive partner shows up, threatens employee
• Suicidal statements: Talking about harming themselves
• Active violence: Call 911 FIRST, then notify workplace
For immediate threats, call 911 first, then notify your workplace security/management.
• Direct threats: "I'm going to hurt you/kill you/shoot up this place"
• Weapons at work: Someone brings a weapon or talks about bringing one
• Physical violence: Assault, pushing, hitting, restraining
• Stalking or harassment: Following, repeated unwanted contact, intimidation
• Domestic violence at work: Abusive partner shows up, threatens employee
• Suicidal statements: Talking about harming themselves
• Active violence: Call 911 FIRST, then notify workplace
For immediate threats, call 911 first, then notify your workplace security/management.
⚠ Concerning Behavior to Report (Non-Emergency)
Report to supervisor, HR, or security (within 24 hours):
• Pattern of angry outbursts or aggressive behavior
• Veiled threats or intimidating statements
• Obsessive focus on weapons or violence
• Significant personality changes or decline
• Boundary violations or refusal to accept "no"
• Escalating conflicts with multiple people
• Paranoia or persecution complex
• "Giving away" possessions, saying goodbyes
These may not be emergencies, but they warrant attention from someone trained to assess threats.
• Pattern of angry outbursts or aggressive behavior
• Veiled threats or intimidating statements
• Obsessive focus on weapons or violence
• Significant personality changes or decline
• Boundary violations or refusal to accept "no"
• Escalating conflicts with multiple people
• Paranoia or persecution complex
• "Giving away" possessions, saying goodbyes
These may not be emergencies, but they warrant attention from someone trained to assess threats.
✓ How to Report
When making a report:
1. Know who to contact:
• Immediate supervisor or manager
• HR department
• Security office
• Anonymous hotline (if available)
• 911 (for active threats)
2. Provide specific information:
• Who (name/description of person of concern)
• What (exactly what they said or did)
• When (date and time)
• Where (location)
• Witnesses (who else saw/heard)
• Context (what led to this behavior)
3. Document incidents:
• Write down details while fresh in your memory
• Save threatening emails, texts, voicemails
• Note dates, times, witnesses
• Keep a log of repeated behaviors
4. Follow up:
• Ask what actions will be taken
• Report if behavior continues or worsens
• Cooperate with any investigation
1. Know who to contact:
• Immediate supervisor or manager
• HR department
• Security office
• Anonymous hotline (if available)
• 911 (for active threats)
2. Provide specific information:
• Who (name/description of person of concern)
• What (exactly what they said or did)
• When (date and time)
• Where (location)
• Witnesses (who else saw/heard)
• Context (what led to this behavior)
3. Document incidents:
• Write down details while fresh in your memory
• Save threatening emails, texts, voicemails
• Note dates, times, witnesses
• Keep a log of repeated behaviors
4. Follow up:
• Ask what actions will be taken
• Report if behavior continues or worsens
• Cooperate with any investigation
💡 "What If I'm Wrong?"
Common reasons people don't report concerning behavior:
• "I might be overreacting"
• "I don't want to get them in trouble"
• "What if I'm wrong and nothing happens?"
• "They were probably just joking"
• "I don't want to seem paranoid"
Here's the truth: Better to report 100 concerns that turn out to be nothing than to miss the one that could have prevented violence.
You will NOT be punished for reporting genuine concerns in good faith. Let trained professionals assess whether behavior is a threat. That's their job, not yours!
• "I might be overreacting"
• "I don't want to get them in trouble"
• "What if I'm wrong and nothing happens?"
• "They were probably just joking"
• "I don't want to seem paranoid"
Here's the truth: Better to report 100 concerns that turn out to be nothing than to miss the one that could have prevented violence.
You will NOT be punished for reporting genuine concerns in good faith. Let trained professionals assess whether behavior is a threat. That's their job, not yours!
Slide 10 of 15
Domestic Violence and the Workplace
Type IV workplace violence
Domestic violence doesn't stay at home—it often follows victims to work. Workplace can be a place of safety OR an additional risk.
💡 How Domestic Violence Affects Work
Victims of domestic violence may:
• Receive threatening calls/emails at work
• Have abuser show up at workplace
• Miss work due to injuries or court appearances
• Have difficulty concentrating or performing tasks
• Display unexplained injuries or changes in behavior
• Be stalked or monitored by abuser
Abusers often target victims at work because:
• They know where and when victim will be
• Public setting may inhibit victim from fleeing
• Want to embarrass or intimidate victim
• Want to cause victim to lose job (increases dependency)
• Receive threatening calls/emails at work
• Have abuser show up at workplace
• Miss work due to injuries or court appearances
• Have difficulty concentrating or performing tasks
• Display unexplained injuries or changes in behavior
• Be stalked or monitored by abuser
Abusers often target victims at work because:
• They know where and when victim will be
• Public setting may inhibit victim from fleeing
• Want to embarrass or intimidate victim
• Want to cause victim to lose job (increases dependency)
✓ If YOU Are a Victim of Domestic Violence
You have rights and resources:
1. Tell your employer: Notify supervisor, HR, or security about the situation. Many employers have policies to protect employees from domestic violence. They can:
• Screen calls/visitors
• Change your work location or schedule
• Provide security escort
• Allow you to park in secure area
• Grant leave for court dates, relocation, medical care
2. Create a safety plan:
• Have protective order delivered to employer
• Provide photo/description of abuser to security
• Change routines (vary routes to work, parking spots)
• Keep phone charged and accessible
• Identify safe people at work to confide in
3. Get help:
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Local domestic violence shelter/services
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Legal aid for protective orders
You are not alone, and it's not your fault. Help is available.
1. Tell your employer: Notify supervisor, HR, or security about the situation. Many employers have policies to protect employees from domestic violence. They can:
• Screen calls/visitors
• Change your work location or schedule
• Provide security escort
• Allow you to park in secure area
• Grant leave for court dates, relocation, medical care
2. Create a safety plan:
• Have protective order delivered to employer
• Provide photo/description of abuser to security
• Change routines (vary routes to work, parking spots)
• Keep phone charged and accessible
• Identify safe people at work to confide in
3. Get help:
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
• Local domestic violence shelter/services
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Legal aid for protective orders
You are not alone, and it's not your fault. Help is available.
⚠ If You Suspect a Coworker is a Victim
How to help:
• Express concern privately: "I've noticed you seem stressed. Are you okay? Is there anything I can do to help?"
• Don't judge or pressure them to leave the relationship
• Listen without giving advice unless asked
• Provide resources (hotline numbers, employee assistance program)
• Report threatening behavior to security/HR (protects everyone)
• Respect their privacy and confidentiality
If abuser comes to workplace and threatens or harms employee, call 911 immediately.
• Express concern privately: "I've noticed you seem stressed. Are you okay? Is there anything I can do to help?"
• Don't judge or pressure them to leave the relationship
• Listen without giving advice unless asked
• Provide resources (hotline numbers, employee assistance program)
• Report threatening behavior to security/HR (protects everyone)
• Respect their privacy and confidentiality
If abuser comes to workplace and threatens or harms employee, call 911 immediately.
Slide 11 of 15
Personal Safety Habits
Everyday practices to reduce risk
Small changes in daily habits can significantly reduce your vulnerability to workplace violence.
✓ At the Workplace
Safety practices during work hours:
• Keep workspace organized so you can exit quickly if needed
• Don't block your exit with bags, furniture, or clutter
• Report broken locks, lights, or security issues immediately
• Lock doors when working alone, especially after hours
• Be aware of who enters your area—challenge unfamiliar people politely
• Keep phone charged and accessible
• Know where panic buttons/alarms are located
• Attend security/active shooter drills seriously
• Don't prop security doors open for "convenience"
• Report tailgating (unauthorized people following you through secure doors)
• Keep workspace organized so you can exit quickly if needed
• Don't block your exit with bags, furniture, or clutter
• Report broken locks, lights, or security issues immediately
• Lock doors when working alone, especially after hours
• Be aware of who enters your area—challenge unfamiliar people politely
• Keep phone charged and accessible
• Know where panic buttons/alarms are located
• Attend security/active shooter drills seriously
• Don't prop security doors open for "convenience"
• Report tailgating (unauthorized people following you through secure doors)
✓ Arriving and Leaving
Safety in parking lots and commuting:
• Park in well-lit, visible areas near entrances
• Vary your routine if possible (different routes, times)
• Have keys ready before reaching your car
• Look around and inside vehicle before entering
• Lock doors immediately after getting in car
• Don't sit in parked car distracted by phone
• If you see suspicious activity, don't investigate—report it
• Request security escort if available for late nights
• Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, get help
• Park in well-lit, visible areas near entrances
• Vary your routine if possible (different routes, times)
• Have keys ready before reaching your car
• Look around and inside vehicle before entering
• Lock doors immediately after getting in car
• Don't sit in parked car distracted by phone
• If you see suspicious activity, don't investigate—report it
• Request security escort if available for late nights
• Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, get help
✓ Online and Social Media
Protecting yourself digitally:
• Don't share your work schedule on social media
• Don't post real-time location check-ins at work
• Review privacy settings—limit who sees your posts
• Don't accept friend requests from people you don't know
• Be cautious about sharing employer information online
• Report threatening or harassing messages
• Screenshot/save threatening communications as evidence
• Don't engage with online harassment—block and report
• Don't share your work schedule on social media
• Don't post real-time location check-ins at work
• Review privacy settings—limit who sees your posts
• Don't accept friend requests from people you don't know
• Be cautious about sharing employer information online
• Report threatening or harassing messages
• Screenshot/save threatening communications as evidence
• Don't engage with online harassment—block and report
⚠ Setting Boundaries
It's okay to say no and set limits:
• You don't have to share personal information (where you live, relationship status, etc.)
• You can decline social invitations from coworkers
• You can end conversations that make you uncomfortable
• You can ask someone to leave you alone
• You can report persistent boundary violations
Being polite doesn't mean accepting uncomfortable situations. Your safety matters more than being nice.
• You don't have to share personal information (where you live, relationship status, etc.)
• You can decline social invitations from coworkers
• You can end conversations that make you uncomfortable
• You can ask someone to leave you alone
• You can report persistent boundary violations
Being polite doesn't mean accepting uncomfortable situations. Your safety matters more than being nice.
Slide 12 of 15
Workplace Violence Prevention Key Takeaways
Remember these critical points
Essential workplace violence prevention knowledge:
- Workplace violence affects 2 million workers annually: Can happen anywhere—offices, hospitals, schools, retail. Most is preventable with awareness and reporting.
- Four types of workplace violence: Criminal intent (robbery), customer/client, worker-on-worker, personal relationship (domestic violence spillover). All are serious.
- Warning signs include: Threats (even "jokes"), intense anger, aggressive behavior, fascination with violence, personality changes, substance abuse, desperation, stalking. Report concerns early.
- De-escalation techniques: Stay calm, respect personal space, listen actively, acknowledge feelings, ask open-ended questions, offer solutions. Avoid arguing, dismissing, or matching their agitation.
- Resolve conflicts early: Use "I" statements, focus on behavior not personality, listen to their perspective. Involve supervisor/HR if conflict continues or involves threats.
- Run, Hide, Fight protocol: Run if safe escape route. Hide in lockable room if can't escape. Fight as last resort when life in imminent danger. Know your exits before emergencies.
- Report all threats and concerns: Direct threats, weapons, violence, stalking—report immediately. Concerning patterns—report within 24 hours. "See something, say something" prevents violence.
- Domestic violence at work: Abusers often target victims at workplace. If you're a victim, tell employer so they can help protect you. Coworkers should report threatening behavior.
- Personal safety habits: Know your exits, park in well-lit areas, don't share work schedule on social media, lock doors when alone, trust your instincts.
- You have the right to feel safe at work: Report concerns without fear of retaliation. Let professionals assess threats. Your safety matters more than being polite.
✓ Creating a Culture of Safety
Everyone plays a role in preventing workplace violence:
• Be aware: Pay attention to warning signs and concerning behavior
• Speak up: Report threats and concerns promptly
• Support victims: Offer help to those experiencing violence or harassment
• Treat others with respect: Reduce conflicts through professionalism
• Take threats seriously: Never dismiss concerning behavior as "just joking"
• Participate in training: Attend drills and training sessions seriously
Together, we create workplaces where everyone feels safe and respected!
• Be aware: Pay attention to warning signs and concerning behavior
• Speak up: Report threats and concerns promptly
• Support victims: Offer help to those experiencing violence or harassment
• Treat others with respect: Reduce conflicts through professionalism
• Take threats seriously: Never dismiss concerning behavior as "just joking"
• Participate in training: Attend drills and training sessions seriously
Together, we create workplaces where everyone feels safe and respected!
Quiz Question 1 of 3
Knowledge Check
What is the "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol for responding to an active shooter situation?
Run toward the shooter to disarm them, hide if you can't reach them, then fight
Evacuate if safe, hide in a lockable room if you can't escape, fight as last resort when life is in danger
Hide first, run if discovered, never fight back
Fight immediately to stop the threat
Quiz Question 2 of 3
Knowledge Check
Which de-escalation technique is most effective when dealing with an angry person?
Tell them to "calm down" and stop overreacting
Stay calm, listen actively, acknowledge their feelings, and offer solutions
Match their volume and energy to show you understand
Argue your point until they understand they're wrong
Quiz Question 3 of 3
Knowledge Check
When should you report concerning behavior or threats to your supervisor or HR?
Only after violence has already occurred
Immediately for direct threats; within 24 hours for concerning patterns or warning signs
Never - you don't want to get someone in trouble
Only if you have absolute proof the person will become violent
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