Always be on the lookout for the following warning signs of probable workplace violence. The signs of troubling behavior include −
● Being upset over a recent work or personal incident
● Suspicious behavior
● Appearing unprepared at work
● Withdrawing from normal work and after-work activities
● Yelling or being verbally abusive to others
● Not following a supervisor’s directions
● Blaming workers for problems at work or at home
● Being suspicious of others
● Having grudges
● Using alcohol or showing up to work drunk
● Having an inappropriate romantic attachment at workplace
● Following a supervisor or colleague
● Threatening to take violent action against a supervisor
● Developing an unusual fascination with weapons
● Being fined or booked for a violent act outside work
● Disclosing plans to hurt or attack people at work
Attitudes that might suggest potentially violent actions include −
● Desiring to stay alone
● Acting morally superior or self-righteous
● Having a sense of personal entitlement
● Getting abused, or feeling wronged, or victimized
● Believing that no other options exist except violence
Knowing about imminent violence and violent behaviors can help minimize the occurrence of workplace violence.
