Workplace Violence Prevention Training 

While employers are responsible for the safety of their employees, it's important not to overlook the role employees play in their own safety. This is where workplace violence prevention training comes in.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workplace violence is defined as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other dangerous behavior that takes place at work. Workplace violence can range from verbal abuse to physical assault, and it can happen in any environment, including retail spaces, offices, and even hospitals.

Workplace violence prevention training will help employees learn how to identify potential hazards, avoid dangerous situations, and respond appropriately in the event of an incident. With the right training, employees can take an active role in keeping themselves and their coworkers safe. Moreover, employers can reduce the risk of costly lawsuits, which can arise from workplace violence incidents.

Employers should also take steps to prevent workplace violence from taking place. This can include establishing a zero-tolerance policy or implementing a complete workplace violence prevention program which of course, should always include effective training.

Preventing violence in the workplace is important to ensure the safety and well-being of employees. It is important to understand the three levels of violence prevention to be able to identify potential or actual violent situations and respond accordingly.

Level One (Early Warning Signs)

At this level, the warning signs are usually intimidation, bullying, discourteous/disrespectful behavior, uncooperative attitude, and verbal abuse. It is essential to observe the behavior and report the concerns to the supervisor or next level of supervision. Document the observed behavior and meet with the offending employee to discuss concerns. Establish limits on acceptable behavior and performance, identify the steps to correct the problems, and set timeframes for changes and consequences.

Level Two (Escalation of the Situation)

At this level, the warning signs are arguing with customers or co-workers, refusal to obey agency policies, sabotaging equipment, verbalizing wishes to hurt others, sending threatening notes, and seeing oneself as a victim. The response at this level is more urgent, and if necessary, call 911 and other appropriate emergency contacts. Contact the supervisor immediately and secure your own safety and others' if needed. Document the observed behavior and meet with the employee to discuss concerns. Begin or continue progressive discipline, and direct the aggressive tendencies to a different behavior if possible.

Level Three (Further Escalation-Usually Resulting in an Emergency Response)

This level involves intense anger resulting in physical fights, destruction of property, display of extreme rage, and utilization of weapons to harm others. Any individual observing violent or threatening behavior that poses an immediate danger to persons or property should call for emergency assistance immediately. Remain calm, secure your personal safety first, and cooperate with law enforcement personnel. Witnesses should provide a description of the violent or threatening individual, details of what was observed, and the exact location of the incident. The supervisor will follow the procedures described in the Level Two section where needed.

It is crucial to prevent violence and respond accordingly to ensure the safety and security of employees and the workplace. Knowing the three levels of violence prevention can help identify and address potential or actual violent situations before they escalate, leading to a safer work environment.

Workplace violence is a major concern for businesses of all sizes and industries. It can come from various sources and can manifest in different ways. However, understanding the different types of workplace violence is essential in preventing and addressing such incidents. Here are the four main types of workplace violence:


Type 1 – Criminal Intent

This type of workplace violence occurs when someone commits a crime, such as robbery, shoplifting, or trespassing. This perpetrator usually does not have any legitimate connection with the business or its employees. Workplace homicides are commonly associated with criminal intent. For instance, a cashier gets robbed by an armed person who entered a shop.


Type 2 – Client/Customer on Worker

Another common type of workplace violence transpires when a client or customer becomes violent towards an employee. It's characterized by verbal and physical assault as well as threatening behavior. This violence usually happens in businesses that offer services or involve financial transactions. Customer violence can emerge when disputes arise over products, services, or money. For example, a client attacks a bank teller over a transaction they claim was erroneous.


Type 3 – Worker on Worker

This type of violence arises when a co-worker turns on another co-worker, manager, or supervisor. This violence is often a result of a breakdown in workplace relationships and can range from verbal threats to physical assault. Competition, jealousy, and resentment are common causes of worker-on-worker violence. For example, a staff member assaults their manager after being denied a raise or promotion.


Type 4 – Personal/Domestic Relationship

This type of violence happens when an individual with a personal relationship with an employee, i.e., a former partner or spouse, enters the workplace and assaults the employee. It is often a result of domestic abuse. The victim may be an employee of the business, while the perpetrator is not. For example, a former partner assaults an employee after following them to their workplace.


By understanding and identifying the different types of workplace violence, businesses can develop effective workplace violence prevention programs and effective training should always address these types.