OCCUPATIONAL VIOLENCE

Workplace violence is the act or threat of violence, ranging from verbal abuse to physical assaults directed toward persons at work or on duty. The impact of workplace violence can range from psychological issues to physical injury, or even death. Violence can occur in any workplace and among any type of worker, but the risk for fatal violence is greater for workers in sales, protective services, and transportation, while the risk for nonfatal violence resulting in days away from work is greatest for healthcare and social assistance workers.

NIOSH funds, conducts, and publishes research focused on risk factors and prevention strategies for workplace violence. Employers, occupational safety and health professionals, and workers can use the following resources to reduce occupational violence.