Homicide was the leading manner of traumatic workplace death among women in the United States from 1980 to 1989. Violence-related fatalities are only the tip of the iceberg. According to the Department of Justice, one million individuals become victims of violent crime each year while working or on duty. The Department of Justice also reports that government employees have a higher rate of violence than private sector workers. Injuries and deaths related to workplace violence should no longer be tolerated.
Most incidents are predictable, most are preventable.
And like any other workplace hazard, it is the responsibility of the employer to take reasonable measures to minimize the likelihood of workplace violence. Workplace violence is not just limited to physical assault, but can also include near misses, verbal abuse, and sexual harassment. Even the fear of assault or witnessing an assault on a co-worker can have serious health affects on workers. Psychological trauma is a common outcome of violent incidents, but one that has not received nearly enough attention or study. Emotional problems resulting from violent incidents include self doubt, depression, fear, post traumatic stress syndrome, loss of sleep, irritability, disturbed relationships with family, friends and co-workers, decreased ability to function at work, and increased absenteeism.