There is a general impression that violence is amplifying in our society. Merely watching the news or reading the newspaper can be a constant reminder of the conflict and violence around us. Work is vital in the lives of people across the country making it important that the work environment is safe as possible. Few would argue that there is an increasing trend of violence of various forms facing workers and employers at the workplace. Workplace violence is now widely recognized as its own specific category of crime that calls for specific responses from employers, law enforcement and the community. In order to propose a solution to workplace violence, there are a number of factors that need to be considered.
The U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines workplace violence as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site [ CITATION OSH16 l 1033 ] . Workplace violence can include threats, harassment, verbal and physical abuse, and homicide. Life threatening examples include physical assaults, psychological trauma, rape, arson, murder and Non-fatal violent crimes that include pranks, vandalism and rumors. The act of violence may not be limited to the workplace, attacks of any kind may occur off site at work related social events, in a client's’ home, or a conference. Not only does this type of violence directly affect employees but can affect customers, bystanders, clients and others in the community. The devastating effects of this type of violence can influence people's physical, emotional and mental health. It can also be detrimental in disfiguring someone’s sense of safety and overall well-being. Direct and in- direct victims may suffer stress or burnout, physical health problems, and may ultimately leave an organization [ CITATION Rog97 l 1033 ].
On August 20, 1986, a part-time letter carri...