Experts estimate that two-thirds of these incidents are preceded by behavioral red flags. They might have been prevented had management or coworkers been better trained to act on their observations or instincts.
"The best weapons for business are awareness and prevention," stated Candysse Miller, executive director of the Insurance Information Network of California. "Corporate managers and personnel need training to recognize the warning signs for workplace violence. Once recognized, corporate policy needs to address the best methods to deal with such volatile situations," she added.
The warning signs are numerous. If an employee has a dramatic behavior or personality change, is chronically disgruntled with the job and assignments, blames others for their problems, intimidates, threatens violence or perceives unfairness or injustice, immediate intervention could prevent violence.
Managers, supervisors and employees must take all threats seriously and executive management should have clearly stated written policy regarding the reporting and handling of such incidents.
The human and economic impact of workplace violence can be devastating. Besides the human toll, workplace violence researchers estimate the cost to American business ranges between $6 billion and $36 billion a year. Negligent hiring and retention out-of-court settlements due to workplace violence lawsuits averaged over $500,000, with jury verdicts in these cases averaging about $3 million.
Companies can help reduce their risk of workplace violence by conducting thorough background checks on new employees; establishing a "zero tolerance" of threats, intimidation or any act of violence and it should be included in the mission statement and employee handbook; instituting an effective grievance process; and offering a continuous forum for training and education.
If confronted with workplace violence, IINC recommends: