Workplace Violence

The fatal shooting that occurred in Minnesota is one of the deadliest workplace homicides to have occurred in the past 20 years. Since 1997, workplace homicides have decreased by 52%, despite this, homicide is the second leading cause of fatal occupational injury in the United States. The Bureau of Labor’s last documented incidents in 2011 were 458, in comparison to the 860 incidents recorded in 1997.  Despite incidents having decreased, the number still remains high. Catalysts that trigger workplace violence vary and there are many reasons why workplace violence may occur. Some possible causes for violence on the job are:

1. Alcohol and drug abuse

2. Financial stress

3. Job loss or threatened loss of work, disgruntled employee

4. Mental illness

5. Family crises such divorce, or loss of loved one

6. Domestic violence and abuse outside of work

7. Job strain or disagreement with coworker

Incidents of violence may also occur in the workplace by those who are not employed with the organization and are unrelated to the job.

1. Robbery

2. Disgruntled customer/clients

3. Abusive spouse, partner, or acquaintance of a current employee

Violent incidents in the workplace usually precede a “trigger” that drives a vulnerable person to take drastic action. Be mindful of colleagues who start to behave in the ways listed below:

1. Feel they have been treated unfairly ( i.e. feel they have been overlooked for a promotion or raise).

2. Show signs of mental instability

3. Isolation or are seen as a loner

4. Have incidents of discipline

What should employers do following an incident of workplace violence?

1. Report and log all incidents and threats of workplace violence.

2. Provide prompt medical evaluation and treatment after the incident.

3. Report violent incidents to the local police immediately.

Workplace violence can happen anywhere. It can happen to you or someone you love. If you are knowledgeable and watchful about workplace violence and its signs in employees, you may be able to anticipate and take actions that may prevent its occurrence.

Remember, workplace violence can happen to anyone.

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#EmployeeAssistance #Trauma #Violence #Workplace