Preventing Violence in the Workplace Essay Example

Violence in the workplace is a growing trend among American businesses that needs the prompt attention of individuals, governments, and corporations alike. In fact it is so serious that “violence in the workplace in recent years has grown to be the second leading cause of death in the workplace” (Baron, Hoffman, & Merrill, 2000). Responding to this epidemic will take a tailored dynamic approach that must be embraced by employees and management alike. First, we must understand exactly what constitutes workplace violence and understand some common triggers from past cases. Second, employees and managers must know and understand what signs they must be aware of that could escalate into workplace violence through effective and recurring training. Lastly, everyone should be thoroughly trained to respond to an act of violence and what to do after the violent act has occurred. The reason that this occurrence has become the second leading cause of death is because of ignorance of violent situations and individuals not taking appropriate actions to deal with violent employees. Before appropriate action against violent employees can be taken, employees and supervisors must be able to identify workplace violence.

The FBI has defined workplace violence as “murder or other violent acts by a disturbed, aggrieved employee or ex-employee against coworkers or supervisors” (Isaacs, 2002). This is a pretty narrow description of the types of incidents that can actually fall under workplace violence. Some of the lesser and often unreported incidents include: lesser cases of assaults, domestic violence, stalking, threats, harassment (to include sexual harassment), and physical and/or emotional abuse. Being able to clearly identify what constitutes violence in the workplace is an ability that primarily supervisors should be able to accomplish. However, this does not release other employees of the responsibility of identifying and reporting violent incidents. There are four distinct