Early Warning Signs of Workplace Violence
Text 1: Type 3 Violence: Early Warning Signs.
Often, when we hear media reports of employees who “went crazy” in a workplace, killing and/or injuring co-workers and managers, we think that the person simply “went over the edge,” that there were no clues.
This is not true. Not only are there many warning signs, these warning signs are frequently given. Some warning signs are subtle, but others are obvious. Following is a list of warning signs to look for in your employees.
Signs of Potential Violence in a Co-Worker, Former Employee, or Friend of Employee:
Verbal threat to hurt or kill someone
Repeated statements about “getting even” or “making someone pay”
Talking about news coverage of violent behavior, “I can understand why that guy blew everyone away at the Post Office. They probably deserved it”
Following, stalking
Romantically obsessed with someone for example, unwanted phone calls, letters or gifts
Angry, confrontational behaviors
Fights or argues easily, unpredictable mood swings
Drug or alcohol abuse
Delusional thinking “God or aliens speak to me”
Belligerence toward customers, managers, or co-workers
Thinks others are “out to get him,” acts like a victim
Obsession with “getting even” with a supervisor
Unexplained negative change in performance
Obsession with work; seems to have no outside interests or friends
Loner — doesn’t socialize with other employees, excludes himself
Has weapons, access to weapons
Has had special training in the use of weapons (military or security)
