Each year, businesses in the United States lose millions of dollars as a result of productivity loss, injury, and absence due to work place violence. It can happen anywhere. Help protect yourself by learning how to identify potentially violent encounters, minimize the number of incidents, and plan for them before they occur.

In a threatening situation, it is important to assess the aggressor’s potential for violence. While there are no absolute indicators of impending aggression, the following are among possible physical actions or body language indicators that may prelude violent behavior from those with a predisposition toward violence:

• Change in eye contact
  
• Facial color change
  
• Folded arms
  
• Clenching and unclenching fists
  
• Looking around the area
  
• Pacing
  
• Hands on hips
  
• Stopping all movement

Strategies to Minimize Potential Danger

Reduce motivation toward aggression by:

• Providing alternative options for resolving conflict;
• Explaining that aggression will not achieve the desired goal;
• Emphasizing that aggression will only intensify the problem.

Increase inhibitions against aggression by:

• Appearing as personable as possible (using the person’s first name);
• Using a calming tone of voice;
• Appealing to the individual’s emotions for empathy and compassion;
• Reminding the individual of possible consequences of aggressive actions.

Impede aggressive behavior by:

• Establishing and following a safety plan;
• Terminating contacts who, you believe, jeopardize your safety or the safety of others;
• Maintaining a cautious and defensive posture;
• Emphasizing in clear terms a nonviolent way to meet goals;
• Offering appropriate resolutions.

Avoid Becoming a Victim

• Have a plan of action. Assess your options.
• Use common sense. Be alert. Assess your situation.
• Trust your instincts. Are you uncomfortable or afraid?

If You Are Attacked

• Escape. Run if you have to.
• Seek cover. Use whatever you have.
• Use Concealment. Hide from your attacker.

If you believe you have been the victim of an assault, immediately contact the closest law enforcement agency or Dial 9-1-1.