Workplace Violence


Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence against an individual or a group of individuals. It can range from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide. Workplace violence is on the rise across the country. No matter how it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees across the nation.

Anytime the actions of an individual create concern for safety or impedes employees from completing their work the police should be notified. The University Police will respond to all reports of violent, threatening, harassing, intimidating, or other disruptive behavior and will conduct thorough investigations into such reports. We have learned that many people do not want to call the police because they do not feel the incident is serious enough. We would much rather respond to an incident that turns out to be of no consequence than to not be notified and have someone afraid to come to work or have someone injured because the incident was more serious than initially perceived.

If you are involved in a workplace violence incident call 911 as soon as possible, notify others in your work area, and follow the following DOs and DON'Ts:

DO project calmness: move and speak slowly, quietly and confidently.

DO focus your attention on the other person to let him know you are interested in what he has to say.

DO maintain a relaxed yet attentive posture and position yourself at a right angle rather than directly in front of the other person.

DO accept criticism in a positive way. When a complaint might be true, use statements like "You are probably right" or "It was my fault". If the criticism seems unwarranted, ask clarifying questions.

DO acknowledge the feelings of the other person. Indicate that you can see he is upset.

DON'T use styles of communication which generate hostility such as apathy, brush off, coldness, going strictly by the rules, or giving the run-around.

DON'T reject all of the person's demands from the start.

DON'T make sudden movements which can be seen as threatening. Notice the tone, volume and rate of your speech. Keep you speech low and slow.

DON'T challenge, threaten, or dare the person. Never belittle the person or make him feel foolish.

DON'T try to make the situation seem less serious than it is.

DON'T invade the person's personal space. Try to maintain a space of 3' to 6' between you and the other person.

If this situation is life threatening, get out immediately. If necessary defend yourself. Call 911 as soon as possible.

If you have additional questions or would like to sign up for a Workplace Violence Training for your organization, please contact Lieutenant Shane Sessions, 435-797-1939.