Workplace ViolenceHow to anticipate, avoid, and protect

Steve Lovig, PHR, MSAdjunct Professor, Coles College of Business Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw Campus

Each week in the US:

# of employees murdered while on the job?

# of employees assaulted while at work?

Estimated cost? Murder …. #1 cause of death on the job… Accidents - #1 cause of death…

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Types of violence Employer directed Domestic related Commercial related Terrorism

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Workplace Programs

Security Policies and

procedures Train Adjust

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Predictors – reliable?

Offered a threat? History of violence? Instincts? Trigger?

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Profile of Killer Narcissistic Victim Controlling Co-workers Conspiracy theories

Profile (continued) Gun ownership Fault Grievances Mountains from Molehills Anger

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Profile (continued)

Task oriented; Insensitive

Humor Record Drug abuse Racist groups

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Red flags Humiliation Rejection; Loss Anxious Disturbed Personality becomes

worseSteve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Flags? Threats Report; Investigation Backgrounds, Criminal Drug/Alcohol – pre-

employment, post-accident, suspicion, random

Weapons in Parking lot? Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Actions? Pre-employment Solo work Terminate Benefits

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Termination Feedback and

Accountability Pressure When? Who? Vent Decision by Company

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015

Disputes Alternative dispute resolution Employee Assistance

Programs

Steve LovigKennesaw State University 2015