Workplace violence: preventive and interventive strategies

Violence is pervasive in the workplace. Homicides are a major cause of death among workers, but their impact and cost are considerably outweighed by the prevalence of near-misses, physical assaults, abusive behavior, and threats of violence, much of which remains unreported and unrecognized. Violence is not just a criminal justice problem nor just one involving aberrant behavior attributable to alcohol, drugs, or mental illness. It is often predictable and preventable. This article describes a plan for a coordinated effort by employers, workers, occupational health professionals, and other relevant specialists to develop and implement a coherent set of strategies for prevention and intervention.