Workplace Violence
Emergency Preparedness | 15-20 min
Summary
Workplace violence encompasses a range of behaviors from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide. According to OSHA, nearly two million American workers report being victims of workplace violence each year, and many more incidents go unreported. Healthcare, retail, social services, and transportation workers face elevated risk, but violence can occur in any workplace. Understanding the types of workplace violence and prevention strategies is essential for all workers.
Members get the full script, discussion questions, English + Spanish printable PDFs, and email delivery.
Start your 7-day free trialKey Points to Cover
- Workplace violence ranges from threats to physical assault
- Four types: criminal intent, customer/client, employee, and domestic violence
- Take all threats seriously and report them
- Be alert to warning signs like escalating conflict and erratic behavior
- Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, act on it
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should this safety talk take?
Plan for about 15-20 min, with extra time for questions and site-specific examples.
Can I tailor the discussion to my workplace?
Yes. Use the key points as a starting place and connect them to the tasks, equipment, and procedures your team uses.