How to prevent job-related violence

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Dec, 1996

What can executives, managers, and supervisors do to prevent workplace violence? According to Joseph Davis, a critical incident management consultant in Laguna Niguel, Calif., "Key research findings demonstrate a strong relationship between job stress and workplace harassment and violence. Workers also believe substance abuse, layoffs, societal issues, and financial insecurity contribute to the problems. Violence prevention programs and crisis response planning help reduce not only the possibility of workplace violence, but also reduce employee anxiety and improve productivity."

It is important to watch for early warning signs of potential problems in co-workers. "All of us have difficult days at work. However, supervisors and managers need to recognize the difference between an employee's bad day and a pattern of hostile behavior." Part of being prepared is anticipating violent situations and pre-planning interventions and responses.

Davis suggests supervisors watch for changes in behavior toward others, especially workers becoming aggressive or confrontational. Additionally, look for recent decline in work performance, personality changes, substance abuse, or moodiness. "Serious stress in an employee's personal life (divorce, financial problems, etc.) or any other significant emotional event can trigger inappropriate workplace behaviors." In the most serious situations, look for a history of violent behavior, possession of firearms, or statements and/or threats about hurting themselves or others.