Each year, millions of Americans are victimized by workplace violence. The first step in preventing workplace violence is recognizing signs of stress. The next step is to ensure employers have a plan in place to respond in the case of violence in the workplace. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines workplace violence as “any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the workplace.” Healthcare is among the most common fields for workplace violence, along with service providers, like delivery and ride-hailing drivers, and school employees. Retail workers are also among the most targeted. OSHA classifies workplace violence into four categories: criminal intent, customer-client, worker-on-worker, and personal relationship. Other precautions should also be taken, including:

• Provide safety education for employees so they know what conduct is not acceptable, what to do if they witness or experience such conduct and how to protect themselves.

• Secure the workplace. Surveillance cameras, proper lighting, key or badge entry and guards can all help alleviate possible violence at work.

• Encourage employees to alert supervisors to any concerns they have about coworkers’ erratic or potentially dangerous behavior, as well as any other safety issue they believe could lead to violence at work.

• Provide for a buddy system or escort service for employees who need it in potentially dangerous situations or at night. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.