Violence and Harassment in the Workplace - Warning Signs

What is workplace violence and harassment?

Most people think of violence as a physical assault. However, workplace violence and harassment is a much broader problem. It is any act in which a person is abused, threatened, intimidated, or assaulted in his or her employment. Spreading rumours, swearing, verbal abuse, harassment, pranks, arguments, property damage, vandalism, sabotage, pushing, theft, physical assaults, inflicting psychological trauma, anger-related incidents, rape, arson, and murder are all examples of workplace violence. NOTE: In this document, we use the term violence to also include bullying and harassment Please refer to the following OSH Answers documents for information:

• context Bullying in the Workplace
• context Internet Harassment or Cyberbullying
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Family (Domestic) Violence
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Legislation
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Dealing with Negative Interactions
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Parking Lot Safety
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Warning Signs
• context Violence and Harassment in the Workplace – Working Late

What should I remember most when learning about warning signs?

• context You must remember that it can be very difficult to know when a person is going to be violent. While not all people will show the following signs, these types of behaviours and physical signs can serve as warning signs that a situation could turn violent. Always take these behaviours "in context". Look for multiple warning signs and for signs of escalation (the behaviours are getting worse).
• context If you are concerned about a person who shows some or all of the identified characteristics, take action. Report your concern to the person designated in your organization's violence prevention program, your supervisor, or the human resources department.

What are signs that a worker may need support?

Some behaviours may indicate a worker is struggling. While these behaviours do not necessarily mean a person will become violent, they may indicate that the worker is experiencing periods of high stress and needs support from the workplace. While not all people will show the following signs, these types of behaviours and physical signs can serve as warning signs. Always take these behaviours "in context". Is it a bad day or a pattern of behaviour? Look for multiple warning signs and for signs of escalation (the behaviours are getting worse). Each situation is unique and professional judgment or outside assistance may be necessary to determine if intervention is necessary. Always take particular note if: Warning signs include:

• context There is a change in the worker's behaviour patterns.
• context The frequency and intensity of the behaviours are disruptive to the work environment.
• context The worker is exhibiting many of these behaviours, rather than just a few.
• context Crying, sulking or temper tantrums.
• context Excessive absenteeism or lateness.
• context Pushing the limits of acceptable conduct or disregarding the health and safety of others.
• context Disrespect for authority.
• context Increased mistakes or errors, or unsatisfactory work quality.
• context Refusal to acknowledge job performance problems.
• context Faulty decision-making.
• context Testing limits to see what they can get away with.
• context Swearing or emotional language.
• context Handling criticism poorly.
• context Making inappropriate statements.
• context Forgetfulness, confusion, or distraction.
• context Inability to focus.
• context Blaming others for mistakes.
• context Complaints of unfair personal treatment.
• context Talking about the same problems repeatedly without resolving them.
• context The insistence that they are always right.
• context Misinterpretating communications from supervisors or co-workers.
• context Social isolation.
• context Sudden and/or unpredictable change in energy level.
• context Complaints of unusual or non-specific illnesses.
• context Holding grudges, and verbalizing hope that something negative will happen to the person against whom they have the grudge.

Are there physical signs that a person may act out?

Sometimes it is not what a person says, but what their body is "doing". Use caution if you see someone who shows one or more of the following "non-verbal" signs or body language.

• context Flushed or pale face.
• context Sweating.
• context Pacing, restless, or repetitive movements.
• context Signs of extreme fatigue (e.g., dark circles under the eyes).
• context Trembling or shaking.
• context Clenched jaws or fists.
• context Exaggerated or violent gestures.
• context Change in voice.
• context Loud talking or chanting.
• context Shallow, rapid breathing.
• context Scowling, sneering or use of abusive language.
• context Glaring or avoiding eye contact.
• context Violating your personal space (they get too close).

What are other warning signs?

Generally speaking, learning about patterns and warning signs could help workplaces prevent potential incidents of violence. No one can predict human behaviour, and there is no specific profile of a potentially violent person. Nevertheless, a potentially violent person may exhibit any or all of the following characteristics: History of violence Threatening behaviour Intimidating behaviour Increase in personal stress Negative personality characteristics Marked changes in mood or behaviour Socially isolated Abuses substances, such as drugs or alcohol

• context Fascinated with incidents of workplace violence.
• context Shows an extreme interest in, or obsession with, weapons.
• context Demonstrated violence towards inanimate objects.
• context Evidence of violent behaviour in the past.
• context States intention to hurt someone (can be verbal or written).
• context Holds grudges.
• context Excessive behaviour (e.g. phone calls, gift giving).
• context Escalating threats.
• context Preoccupation with violence.
• context Argumentative or uncooperative.
• context Displays unwarranted anger.
• context Impulsive or easily frustrated.
• context Challenges peers and authority figures.
• context An unreciprocated romantic obsession.
• context Serious family or financial problems.
• context Recent job loss or personal loss.
• context Suspicious of others.
• context Believes they are entitled to something.
• context Cannot take criticism.
• context Feels victimized.
• context Shows a lack of concern for the safety or well-being of others.
• context Blames others for their problems or mistakes.
• context Low self-esteem.
• context Extreme or bizarre behaviour.
• context Irrational beliefs and ideas.
• context Appears depressed or expresses hopelessness or heightened anxiety.
• context Marked decline in work performance.
• context Demonstrates a drastic change in belief systems.
• context History of negative interpersonal relationships.
• context Few family or friends.
• context Has an obsessive involvement with their job.

What can I do if I am concerned?

Take action, especially if you feel your safety or the safety of others is threatened. Follow your workplace’s policy and procedures for responding to violence and harassment, including reporting by witnesses. If you are a worker, you can also report your concerns to your supervisor, human resources department, or the person designated by your organization's violence prevention program. You can also get advice from your employee assistance program (EAP) if available.