Employers should take steps to protect employees and other people in workplaces from violent incidents that may result in injury or harm. The impact on employees who suffer trauma at work can be a significant occupational safety and health problem. The WorkSafe Western Australia Commission has published a code of practice addressing many of these issues. While this code of practice refers to harassment, prejudice and discrimination, it only applies to these behaviours when the actions by an individual are deliberate and intended to cause physical injury or psychological harm. It is acknowledged that dealing with workplace violence may be stressful for some people and this should be taken into account in the management of problems that may occur.
Workplace violence is an action or incident that physically or psychologically harms another person.
It includes situations where employees and other people are threatened, attacked or physically assaulted at work. Non-physical violence, such as verbal abuse, intimidation and threatening behaviour, may also significantly affect a person's health and well being. Threats may be perceived or real and there does not have to be physical injury for the violence to be a workplace hazard. Employees may be affected by workplace violence, even if they are not directly involved. Not every violent outburst has a reason that can be easily identified.