Definition and Categories of Workplace Violence - Workplace violence refers to physical abuse or threats that pose a risk to employee health and safety. - The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health categorizes workplace violence into worker on worker, personal relationship, customer/client, and criminal intent. - These categories are further divided into three levels based on the severity of violence. - Employers are required to provide a safe environment for employees under the Occupational Health Act of 1970. - Many workplaces have implemented programs and protocols to protect their workers.

Epidemiology and Statistics of Workplace Violence - In 2011, violence contributed to 17% of all US occupational fatalities, with homicides accounting for 10%. - From 1992 to 2010, there were an average of over 700 workplace homicide victims per year in the United States. - Workplace violence disproportionately affects females, with homicides contributing to 21% of female occupational fatalities compared to 9% for males. - Female homicides are often committed by relatives or domestic partners, while male homicides are more likely to be perpetrated by robbers. - Approximately 2 million US workers report workplace violence incidents each year.

Types and Levels of Workplace Violence - Worker on worker violence occurs between individuals of the same occupation and can be physical, verbal, or emotional. - Personal relationship violence involves bringing personal relationship issues into the workplace, causing disruption for the employee and co-workers. - Customer/client violence occurs between customers/clients and employees, with violence occurring in either direction. - Criminal intent violence in the workplace has no relationship to the workplace or its employees. - These categories of workplace violence are further classified into three levels based on the severity of the situation.

Motivations and Preventative Strategies for Workplace Violence - Perline and Goldschmidt highlight two types of workplace violence: object-focused and non-object-focused. - Object-focused violence aims to obtain something valuable, while non-object-focused violence is emotionally driven and often associated with anger. - Understanding the motivation behind workplace violence is crucial for developing prevention strategies. - Frustration and perceived injustice contribute to anger, and mitigating these factors can help prevent violent episodes. - The anger-focus model identifies eight different types of focus that can lead to workplace violence, providing insights for preventive measures.

Prevention Measures and Responses to Workplace Violence - The United States Department of Labor aims to promote a safe work environment free from violence, harassment, and intimidation. - Key factors to prevent workplace violence include maintaining a positive work environment and implementing security measures. - Educating employees on policies and procedures and recognizing performance/conduct indicators are important prevention strategies. - Employee support services should be available for expressing concerns, and early intervention is crucial. - In the event of workplace violence, the Department of Homeland Security suggests running, hiding, or fighting as options.