Identifying 5 Types of Violence in the Workplace

Did you know that in 2021, 35% of all charges filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) involved allegations of harassment? From 2018 to 2022, harassment claims based on race, sex, and disability persisted, highlighting the serious and ongoing issue of workplace violence.

Workplace violence is an unfortunate reality that can affect any organization and profoundly impact employee safety and productivity. The challenge lies in that workplace violence can stem from various sources, such as coworkers, customers, or even outside individuals.

With such complexity, identifying different types and understanding the risks associated with workplace violence become crucial for prevention.  This blog will walk you through the 5 types of workplace violence, helping you identify them and implement strategies to create a safer work environment for everyone.

What Is Workplace Violence?

Workplace violence refers to any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs within a work environment. 

Unlike other threats to businesses, workplace violence is unique because people cause it—whether a coworker, contractor, customer or even a former employee—and it can occur both inside and outside the office. This broad definition means that no workplace is immune from the risks.

Workplace violence is worrisome because it encompasses a broad range of behaviors, including threats, harassment, intimidation, verbal abuse, and physical attacks, sometimes resulting in the most tragic outcomes, such as homicide. OSHA recognizes that workplace violence disrupts work environments and impacts employee safety on multiple levels.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), in 2019 alone, 761 out of 5,333 fatal workplace injuries were the result of intentional harm from another person. These figures emphasize that organizations urgently need to acknowledge these issues and implement strategies to safeguard their employees.

Types of Workplace Violence

Workplace violence can take many forms, each posing unique challenges to businesses. Understanding the 5 types of workplace violence is key to identifying risks and taking preventive measures. Whether it’s an external threat or an internal conflict, workplace violence can significantly impact the safety and productivity of employees. Below is a breakdown of each type.

1. Understanding Criminal Intent in the Workplace

Criminal intent violence occurs when the perpetrator has no legitimate relationship with the business or its employees. Often motivated by theft or other crimes, these incidents typically happen in industries where cash or high-value goods are present. In fact, according to the WHO (World Health Organization), globally, 63% of health workers report experiencing any form of violence at the workplace. Businesses like retail stores, banks, and pharmacies are frequent targets.

Key Characteristics:

1. The perpetrator has no relationship with the business or employees.
2. The primary motive is theft, often targeting businesses that handle cash or valuable goods.
3. Violence often occurs during robberies, shoplifting, or other crimes involving property.

Example:
In June 2011, a tragic incident occurred at a pharmacy in Medford, New York, when two individuals committed an armed robbery, resulting in the deaths of four people, including a pharmacist, a clerk, and two customers. The assailants targeted the pharmacy to steal prescription pain relievers, highlighting the critical need for stringent security measures in pharmacies.

2. Customer/Client Violence

Customer/Client violence occurs when the perpetrator is a customer, client, or patient of the business. This type of violence typically arises in high-stress environments, such as healthcare facilities, social services, and customer service roles. Employees may be subjected to verbal threats, physical attacks, or harassment while performing their regular duties. Mental health issues, dissatisfaction with services, and unmet expectations are common triggers for this type of violence.

Research indicates that 20% of healthcare professionals have reported experiencing physical abuse at work, according to StatPearls. 

Such dynamics are not limited to healthcare. In restaurants or on flights, high-pressure conditions can lead dissatisfied customers to resort to aggressive behavior over service disputes, putting employees like waiters or flight attendants in jeopardy.

Overall, while customers or clients may not typically be viewed as potential perpetrators of violence, their interactions can turn violent, particularly when stress, insufficient resources, and weak prevention strategies are at play.

Key Characteristics:

1. The perpetrator is a customer, client, or patient of the establishment.
2. It occurs during the course of normal duties, often in high-stress environments.
3. Triggers may include dissatisfaction with services or underlying mental health issues.

Example:
A hospital emergency room nurse faces verbal abuse and physical aggression from a frustrated patient awaiting treatment. Such incidents are common in healthcare settings, where the combination of stress, mental health challenges, and dissatisfaction can lead to violence.

3. Worker-to-Worker Violence

Worker-to-worker violence refers to acts of aggression perpetrated by a current or former employee against a colleague. The motivations behind such violence often stem from interpersonal conflicts or job-related issues. Power dynamics within the workplace play a significant role, especially in environments where rank or seniority can trigger aggressive behaviors. For instance, newer staff members are often targeted for bullying, particularly in high-stress industries like healthcare.

Research suggests that 71% of workplace bullies outrank their victims, making it difficult for employees to report or confront abusive behavior. This violence can take many forms, including bullying, emotional abuse, verbal aggression, and sometimes physical altercations. These hostile actions not only harm the targeted individuals but also negatively impact the entire workplace culture, leading to increased absenteeism, job dissatisfaction, and higher turnover rates.

Key Characteristics:

1. The perpetrator is a current or former employee.
2. Motivated by interpersonal or job-related conflicts, often influenced by power dynamics or seniority.
3. Includes bullying, emotional, verbal, and physical abuse, which can significantly harm both the individual and the broader workplace environment.

Example:
In healthcare settings, nurse bullying is a well-known issue. Dr. Josephine Ensign shared her personal experience in Psychology Today, where she described being subjected to bullying by her colleagues. This included verbal hostility, isolation, and demeaning tasks, which significantly affected her mental health and self-esteem. Such incidents highlight the detrimental impact of worker-to-worker violence on individuals and the broader workplace environment.

4. Domestic Violence

Domestic violence in the workplace occurs when an employee is targeted by someone from their personal life, such as a spouse, partner, or family member, while at work. This type of violence is particularly dangerous because the perpetrator is not an employee. Yet, they bring their personal conflict into the workplace, putting both the targeted individual and other employees at risk. Domestic violence at work can include physical confrontations, stalking, harassment, or even threats of harm.

Domestic violence spilling into the workplace is an increasing concern. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 44% of full-time employed adults have experienced the effects of domestic violence in their workplace, often leading to absences, reduced productivity, and emotional distress. The risk is exceptionally high when the victim is in the process of separating from or leaving the abusive partner, which can heighten the danger.

Key Characteristics:

1. The perpetrator is an individual from the employee’s personal life (e.g., spouse, partner, or family member).
2. Violence often occurs in cases where there is a history of domestic abuse, especially during or after attempts of separation.
3. It can include physical attacks, stalking, or harassment, putting not just the victim but other employees at risk.

Example:

Carie Charlesworth’s experience demonstrates the severe impact of domestic violence on employment. After her ex-husband’s arrest for violating a restraining order on school grounds, she was placed on indefinite leave and eventually terminated from her teaching position. This incident highlights the complexities employers face when addressing domestic violence issues and the importance of supportive policies for affected employees.

Understanding and addressing these types of violence at the workplace can help create safer, more supportive work environments.

5. Ideological Violence in the Workplace

Ideological violence occurs when an individual or group commits violent acts against a workplace based on ideological, religious, or political beliefs. These attacks are often driven by deeply held convictions and can result in targeted violence against organizations or employees who are perceived to represent opposing views. Ideological violence can take many forms, including extremist attacks, hate crimes, or even mass shootings.

This type of violence is especially dangerous because it is often value-driven, making it unpredictable and difficult to prevent. 

Key Characteristics:

1. The violence is driven by ideology, such as religious, political, or extremist beliefs.
2. It can manifest as hate crimes, mass shootings, or other forms of targeted aggression.
3. Typically, it involves attacks on organizations or individuals that represent opposing views.

Healthcare facilities and similar workplace environments are particularly vulnerable, especially over contentious issues like reproductive rights, gender-affirming care, and COVID-19 protocols. Protests concerning services like abortion or controversies surrounding vaccine mandates can swiftly escalate into violent confrontations.

Example: An example of ideological violence is the 2015 shooting at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado, where an attacker, motivated by anti-abortion beliefs, opened fire on the clinic’s staff and clients. This tragic event highlights how deeply held convictions can fuel violence against organizations, placing employees at severe risk.

Due to their high-profile nature, large-scale public events such as political conventions and festivals can become hotbeds for such attacks, further leveraging the visibility of executives and companies as symbolic targets.

Such incidents highlight the tangible threat posed by ideological violence, stressing the need for organizations to adopt robust safety protocols and prepare for potential extremist threats.

The real challenge, however, is not only to mitigate risks but also to understand the motivations behind these attacks to thwart them effectively.

Read: Understanding Ethical Conduct in the Workplace

Industries Most at Risk for Workplace Violence

While workplace violence can happen in any industry, certain sectors face significantly higher risks due to the nature of their work. Employees who frequently interact with the public, handle high-value assets, or work in high-stress environments are particularly vulnerable. Recognizing which industries are most at risk can help organizations take appropriate preventative measures.

According to research, industries such as healthcare, public service, retail, law enforcement, and social services are at the greatest risk of workplace violence. In fact, the healthcare industry is among the most dangerous professions in terms of workplace violence, with nearly 20% of healthcare professionals reporting physical abuse while on the job. Similarly, retail and customer service workers, who often handle cash or work in public-facing roles, are also more vulnerable.

Key Industries at Risk:

1. Healthcare: This sector faces a significant amount of workplace violence, particularly in emergency rooms and psychiatric units. Healthcare workers frequently deal with high-stress situations, which can lead to violent encounters with patients or their families. In fact, healthcare and social services account for nearly 50% of all workplace assaults in the U.S.
2. Public Service: Social workers, government employees, and others in public-facing roles often encounter individuals in distress, leading to higher instances of verbal or physical aggression.
3. Retail and Customer Service: Criminal intent violence is common in retail settings, especially where cash handling and high-value items are involved.
4. Law Enforcement: Police officers and security personnel regularly confront dangerous situations, making this profession inherently risky.
5. Delivery Workers: Due to their isolated work environments and the handling of high-value goods, delivery workers are more prone to robberies and physical threats.

By identifying these high-risk industries, organizations can tailor their prevention strategies to protect employees from workplace violence and create safer work environments.

Read: Understanding the Importance and Purpose of Policies in the Workplace

Tips for Workplace Violence Prevention

Preventing workplace violence requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. Employers must prioritize safety measures and create a culture where employees feel protected. By implementing practical strategies, organizations can minimize the risk of violent incidents and foster a safer working environment.

Here are some effective tips for preventing workplace violence:

1. Reduce the Number of Assets on Hand

Limit the amount of cash or valuable items stored at your workplace, particularly in retail or service-based industries. This can help reduce the motivation for theft-related violence, one of the key drivers of criminal intent violence.

2. Provide Security and Monitor Visitors

Investing in security personnel or surveillance systems can deter potential perpetrators. Monitoring visitors and implementing sign-in procedures can help control access to the workplace, reducing the risk of violence from unauthorized individuals.

3. Complete Background Checks

Conduct thorough background checks on all new hires, particularly in high-risk industries like healthcare, retail, or law enforcement. Identifying potential red flags in a candidate’s history can prevent individuals with violent tendencies from entering the workforce.

4. Adopt Safety Guidelines for Public-Facing Workplaces

Industries like healthcare, customer service, and retail regularly interact with the public, which increases the risk of violence. Implementing safety protocols, such as panic buttons, de-escalation training, and emergency exits, can help employees feel safer and respond effectively to threats.

5. Implement a Zero-Tolerance Policy for Workplace Violence

A clear, enforceable zero-tolerance policy for any form of violence, harassment, or abuse is critical. Employees should be aware that any violent behavior will lead to immediate disciplinary action. This policy helps foster a culture of accountability and respect.

6. Provide Workplace Violence Training

It is essential to regularly train employees to recognize the signs of workplace violence and respond appropriately. This training can include conflict resolution, de-escalation techniques, and instructions on how to report incidents.

7. Limit Access to Non-Employees

Restricting access to non-employees, particularly in sensitive areas like staff-only zones, can help reduce the risk of external violence. Secure entrances and ID badges can be used to manage who enters the premises.

8. Encourage Open Communication and Reporting

Develop a safe and confidential system for employees to report incidents or suspicious behavior. Encourage transparency and ensure that reports are handled promptly and thoroughly to prevent escalation.

By following these tips, employers can significantly reduce the risk of workplace violence and ensure that employees feel protected while on the job.

Read: Importance of Communication in Understanding Healthcare Policy

Enhance Workplace Safety by Using VComply 

In today’s fast-paced business environment, ensuring workplace safety is a top priority for organizations across industries. This is where VComply proves to be an invaluable ally.

It simplifies compliance management by automating routine safety tasks, thereby reducing the likelihood of human errors that could lead to safety violations or even accidents.

Here’s how VComply can enhance businesses’ workplace safety.

1. Preventive Measures with Automated Workflows 

VComply’s automated reminders and workflows ensure that routine safety tasks like inspections, training, and compliance checks are never missed. This consistency in performing safety checks is critical in preemptively addressing potential risks that could escalate into dangerous situations if overlooked.

2. Creating and Implementing Safety Policies 

VComply’s customizable templates aid organizations in crafting detailed health and safety policies that align with their specific operational needs. These templates are time-savers and help minimize the risk of manual errors, ensuring compliance with necessary safety standards efficiently.

3. Promoting OSHA Compliance 

To align with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, VComply makes the process straightforward. The platform not only streamlines compliance but also promotes a safety-first culture within the workforce, which is essential for maintaining a secure work environment.

4. Tracking Employee Training and Enhancing Communication 

VComply also plays a crucial role in tracking employee training, ensuring that all team members are up-to-date with current safety protocols. The use of automated reminders further enhances this process.

Moreover, custom dashboards facilitate seamless communication across departments, enabling real-time updates on safety procedures and protocols to be shared easily with relevant stakeholders.

5. Ensuring Robust Safety and Data Management 

Beyond workflow management, VComply offers robust data security measures to protect vital safety-related information. By securely managing this data, the platform helps prevent breaches that could otherwise lead to severe safety risks. VComply offers tools to maintain a safe working environment.

Conclusion

Understanding the 5 types of workplace violence is crucial for businesses to recognize potential threats and take proactive measures to prevent them. Whether it’s criminal intent, customer aggression, worker-to-worker conflict, domestic violence, or ideologically motivated attacks, each form of workplace violence presents unique challenges that require specific strategies for prevention.

Employers can create a safer environment for their employees by implementing effective prevention measures—such as establishing clear policies, conducting regular risk assessments, and providing workplace violence training. Tools like VComply are invaluable in ensuring compliance with these policies, allowing businesses to track, enforce, and update safety procedures efficiently.

Workplace violence threatens employee safety and can negatively impact an organization’s culture, productivity, and reputation. Establishing safety measures and prevention strategies will significantly reduce the risk of violent incidents, creating a more secure and supportive workplace for all.Start your 21-day free trial today and experience the power of VComply for your organization.