This topic covers violence in the workplace, which is consistently one of the leading causes of job-related injuries and fatalities. Workplace violence laws address issues including the use and possession of guns and other weapons in the workplace, stalking, harassment, and domestic violence in the workplace. OSHA does not currently have a federal standard for workplace violence, but employers nevertheless have a duty to take appropriate measures to prevent violent behavior under the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. In addition, several states have enacted laws that specifically address workplace violence.
Effective violence-prevention measures include zero-tolerance policies; consistent response standards for employees; training and education; and post-incident response procedures for employers, including addressing trauma and providing access to counseling if necessary.
For related resources and training materials, refer to the following topics: