What to do when workplace tensions turn violent

Everyday workplace clashes and arguments have the ability to result in a dangerous work environment if they are not dealt with properly. 

Workplace violence can fall anywhere on the spectrum, it can be subtle or it can be extreme.  It is important to note that it is the everyday workplace environment that contributes to workplace violence.  If workplace conflict is not dealt with properly then it can exacerbate the problem.

“Many Canadians' identity and sense of self-worth is wrapped up in their work, making the office an ideal target for carrying out a violent act,” says Julian Barling, a professor of organizational behaviour and psychology at Queen's University.

In Canada there is not much data showing workplace violence rates.  

In 2007 Statistics Canada’s criminal victimization in the workplace report stated that approximately one-fifth of violent incidents in the country happened in the victim’s workplace.  

Of the reported workplace incidents 71% were physical assaults.    

Nearly 27% of incidents involving male victims resulted in injuries while only 17% of female victims sustained injuries.  

The Canadian Occupational Health and Safety Act defines workplace violence as “any action, conduct, threat or gesture” toward an employee that will likely cause them harm, illness or injury.

Some of the most aggressive work environments are restaurant kitchens, construction sites, factories, newsrooms, and sports fields.  

It is important to remember that speaking up is crucial for preventing workplace violence.  
In order to prevent aggression you have to take steps to stop the problem from escalating to a life threatening situation.  When the problem first arises, stand up for yourself.    

Managers need to address the problem as soon as it arises and look for way to resolve it.  

Those who experience or witness workplace conflict should make a note of everything, for instance, time, dates, and what was said.  Therefore, if the problem does get more intense and an investigation is done there is evidence.  

Some red flags to look for in order to identify workplace violence are swearing, agitation, volume, and threats.  These things lead to a physical action being taken.  

As for threats, they should be taken seriously by everybody, do not assume that it is not a serious threat.  

With the current economic recession there is a lot of stress among employees, work-induced stress, this is likely to trigger workplace conflict.  It does not mean that it will always end in violence, but it is an important observation to take note of.  

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Posted by: suhujitha on 2009-11-11 11:35:04

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