Workplace violence can happen in any industry, at any time, and to anyone. From verbal threats to physical altercations or active shooter scenarios, the risks are real—and preparation is key. According to OSHA, nearly 2 million American workers report being victims of workplace violence each year, and many more cases go unreported.
At Beacon Mutual, we want to help businesses in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut create a safer, more prepared workplace. That’s why we’ve developed comprehensive resources, including a Workplace Violence Safety Alert and an Active Shooter Response Poster, and are hosting an in-person Violence in the Workplace Safety Seminar on June 12th.
What is Workplace Violence?
Workplace violence includes any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. It ranges from verbal abuse to physical assaults and even homicide.
OSHA Identifies Four Types of Workplace Violence:
- Criminal Intent—The perpetrator has no legitimate relationship to the business (e.g., robbery).
- Customer or Client—The perpetrator is a customer, client, or patient of the business.
- Worker-on-Worker—Violence occuring between employees
- Personal Relationship—The perpetrator has a personal connection with an employee (e.g., domestic violence).
Workplace Violence Warning Signs and Risk Factors to Watch For:
While workplace violence can be unpredictable, there are often warning signs and risk factors. Early recognition can help prevent incidents from escalating.
Common Warning Signs:
- Sudden behavior changes
- Verbal threats or aggressive outbursts
- Fascination with weapons or previous violent incidents
- Expressions of hopelessness or suicidal thoughts
- Substance abuse or noticeable decline in performance
Risk Factors Include:
- Working alone or in isolated areas
- Late-night or early-morning shifts
- Handling money or valuables
- Dealing with the public in emotionally charged situations
Beacon's Workplace Violence Prevention Resources:
To support local employers, Beacon Mutual offers the following tools and resources:
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Workplace violence can have devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. As a small business owner, taking a proactive approach to prevention is not only the right thing to do—it’s also vital to protecting your employees and your company.
Partner with Beacon for Workplace Safety
Beacon Mutual is here to help your business build a culture of safety. From in-person seminars to loss prevention consultations, we’re your local partner in protecting your people.
Contact Beacon Mutual today to learn more or speak with a safety expert.