Workplace Violence Hazard Assessments
Warning Signs of Potentially Violent Individuals
There are a number of factors that have been shown to contribute to the risk of workplace violence. However, there is no exact method to predict when a person will become violent. One or more of these warning signs may be displayed before a person becomes violent but does not necessarily indicate that an individual will become violent. A display of these signs should trigger concern as they're usually exhibited by people experiencing problems. Employees or students who exhibit the following behaviors should be reported to their supervisor and Security & Public Safety for investigation and follow-up:
- History of violent behavior.
- Irrational beliefs and ideas.
- Verbal, nonverbal or written threats or intimidation.
- Fascination with other recent incidents of workplace violence and approval of the
- use of violence under similar circumstances.
- Fascination with weaponry and/or acts of violence.
- Carrying a concealed weapon or flashing a weapon to test reactions.
- Expressions of a plan to hurt himself/herself or others.
- Externalizing blame.
- Unreciprocated romantic obsession with a co-worker or student. This interest
- may be so intense that the co-worker/student will feel threatened and may report the unwanted attention under the Sexual Harassment policy.
- Taking up much of a supervisor's time with behavior or performance problems.
- Fear reaction among coworkers or students.
- Drastic change in belief system.
- Displays of unwarranted anger.
- New or increased source of stress at home or work.
- Inability to take criticism. Holding a grudge, especially against a supervisor.
- Feelings of being victimized.
- Intoxication from alcohol and other substances.
- Expressions of hopelessness or heightened anxiety.
- Productivity and/or attendance problems.
- Destruction of property.
- Steals or sabotages projects or equipment.
- Intentional disregard or lack of concern for the safety of others.
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Also in Workplace Violence:
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