Key Questions
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What is workplace violence?
The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), defines workplace violence as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, or intimidation that occurs at the workplace.
How do you distinguish the main types of workplace violence?
Workplace violence is generally categorized based on who instigates the violence. The four main types include: criminal intent, customer, client, or patient, co-worker, and personal.
What are some warning signs that a coworker is capable of instigating violent acts?
Being intolerant of criticism, being suspicious of coworkers, argumentative, angers easily and quickly, acts intimidating, empathizes with others who commit workplace violence, has serious relationship or financial problems, socially isolates self at work, is cruelly teased by fellow employees, and has a history of psychological issues.
What should I do if I'm confronted by a coworker who is angry and aggressive?
Let the person speak without interrupting or arguing, sympathize with the person's point of view, speak in calm, soft tones, have non-threatening body language and posture, don't take it personally, and ask what you can do to help them.
What rights do I have as an employee to ensure I'm safe from violence at work?
OSHA requires all workplaces to be free of recognized hazards through regulations that establish the right for employees to: request an inspection, file a report, review your employer's records of work-related injuries, and to be protected from retaliation and discrimination.