What is Workplace Violence?

Workplace violence is any threat or act of aggression against a worker. It includes physical assault, verbal abuse and sexual harassment.

In the most serious cases, workplace violence can result in death. But more commonly workplace violence results in loss of sleep, fear, or depression. Victims of workplace violence have an increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (this is a common disorder for victims of war, terrorism and rape).

After a violent incident, some workers have difficulty returning to work. They may blame themselves or fear that others will blame them. Even the fear of violence or witnessing violence can affect workers. Violence also affects family members who may worry about their relative when they are at work.

There are different sources of violence in the workplace

• an outsider who commits a criminal act such as a robbery
• a customer, patient, or other person who receives services from the worker
• employers, supervisors, or coworkers

Are you at risk?

Any worker can be at risk from violence. But some workers face a higher risk. These include

• retail workers
• teachers
• social service workers
• health care workers
• public service workers
• corrections workers

The way the working environment is designed can also affect the risk of violence. A crowded, noisy environment can trigger violence when people are already under stress. Long waits when customers or patients need services can also prompt violence.

How can workplace violence be prevented?

Most acts of violence can be prevented. Employers and workers should work together to develop a workplace violence policy and program. The workplace health and safety committee should be involved in identifying the risks for violence in the workplace, reviewing past violent incidents, and developing solutions.

Some ways employers can make the workplace safer are

Work Environment

• improve workplace design to provide escape routes for employees
• install good lighting inside and outside the workplace
• provide comfortable waiting areas and keep waiting times short for customers and clients
• install panic alarms and provide personal security alarms
• provide cellular phones for those who work in the community or in private homes

Work Design

• hire extra workers to reduce isolation
• ban working alone
• reduce stress in the workplace and improve communication between workers and management

Education & Support

• train workers on how to recognize and respond to violent situations
• provide counselling or Employee Assistance Programs for victims of violence

What can you do?

• Ask your workplace health and safety committee or worker representative to identify the risks for violence in your workplace.
• Report workplace violence concerns to your employer, health and safety committee, or worker representative.

Revised June 2000