Workplace Violence: A Growing Concern for U.S. Businesses
In the post-Covid business environment, workplace violence has emerged as a critical issue affecting businesses across the United States. Defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as “any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site,” workplace violence encompasses behaviors ranging from verbal abuse to physical assaults, stalking and even homicide.
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Financial Implications
The economic impact of workplace violence on businesses is substantial. Recent estimates suggest that workplace assaults contribute to annual losses of approximately $250 billion – $330 billion.
These costs arise from various factors, including medical expenses, workers’ compensation, legal fees, and diminished productivity. Additionally, these incidents can lead to significant indirect costs, such as negative publicity and increased employee turnover. Studies have shown that employee turnover spikes after violent incidents, with replacement costs ranging between two-thirds to twice the annual salary of the departing employee.
Partnering with a trusted security provider can help to mitigate the financial burden of workplace violence on businesses by reducing their exposure to potentially volatile situations in the workplace. Not only does this protect the operational capacity of an organization, it also protects their employees and assets from potential harm.
Prevalence and Impact on Employees
Workplace violence affects a significant portion of the workforce. According to the International Labor Organization, more than 1 in 5 workers worldwide have experienced violence or harassment at work, with women slightly more likely to be affected than men. In the U.S., more than 2 million workers face violence on the job each year, and those are just the reported cases.
Specific industries, particularly health care and social services, are disproportionately affected. For instance, the current rate of serious workplace violence injuries in the private industry is 4.3 per 10,000 workers, with health care and social assistance sectors experiencing even higher rates.
In the case of high-threat terminations, having security personnel on site in the lead up to — and during the immediate aftermath of — the termination can deter the employee in question from taking volatile action against the ex-employer or remaining employees.
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The prevalence and financial ramifications of workplace violence underscore the urgent need for businesses to implement comprehensive prevention strategies. By fostering a safe and supportive work environment, companies can protect their employees and mitigate the substantial costs associated with workplace violence.
