Workplace violence and acts of aggression

Workplace violence includes any physical or sexual assault by a patient, client, supervisor, co-worker, customer or member of the general public. Behaviour such as pushing, hitting, pinching or biting is violence. Verbal abuse, threatening language and harassment are also violence. Another form of workplace bullying and violence is destruction of property.

In addition to the physical injuries it causes, workplace violence can cause unseen stress and a dysfunctional work environment. Many employers are unaware violence is even occurring. Employers and workers must cooperate to create a violence-free workplace. Many employers adopt a zero tolerance policy to prevent workplace violence.