Workplace Violence Prevention
Workplace violence ranges from threats and harassment to physical assault. It can come from coworkers, customers, the public or someone’s personal relationships.
- All workers
- State-specific
- California
Warning signs
- Threats, intimidation, or talk of violence or weapons
- Extreme anger, outbursts, or holding grudges
- Sudden changes in behavior, isolation, or substance abuse
- Domestic violence that follows someone to work
Report concerns to your supervisor, HR or security. You don’t have to be sure; let trained people assess it.
De-escalation
- Stay calm and keep a safe distance; keep an exit path.
- Speak slowly and quietly; listen and acknowledge feelings.
- Don’t argue, threaten or touch the person.
- Leave and get help if the situation escalates.
If there is an active threat: Run, Hide, Fight
- Run: if there’s a safe path, get out and help others out. Leave belongings.
- Hide: if you can’t get out, lock or barricade the door, silence your phone, stay out of sight.
- Fight: as a last resort, when your life is in danger, act with as much force as possible.
- Call 911 when it’s safe.
State rules: California requires most employers to have a written Workplace Violence Prevention Plan and training. Federal OSHA can cite serious workplace violence hazards under the General Duty Clause.
Standards & references
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