Workplace Violence Prevention

Recognize warning signs and respond safely to threats

Why It Matters

Workplace violence spans a wide range: threats, intimidation, harassment, domestic violence that follows someone to work, and physical assault. Front-line staff in public service, health, education, and social services face elevated risk. Many incidents are preceded by warning signs that colleagues noticed but did not know how to report. Prevention training gives employees the confidence to speak up and act, and gives organizations a better chance to intervene early and protect everyone on site.

Course Description

The course combines awareness, skill practice, and planning. Participants examine the types of workplace violence and the behavioral warning signs that often come before an incident, using case studies rather than profiles of individuals. Role-play exercises practice verbal de-escalation with an agitated client or visitor: tone, distance, listening, and knowing when to disengage and get help. Participants review how to report threats and concerning behavior, the role of a threat assessment team, and how to support colleagues affected by domestic violence. The emergency response segment covers lockdown, evacuation, and run, hide, fight concepts in general terms. Participants leave knowing their organization's reporting channels and with a personal response plan.

Key Focus Areas

Participants explore and practice:

Types of workplace violence, including threats and intimidation
Behavioral warning signs and when to raise a concern
Verbal de-escalation with agitated clients or visitors
Reporting procedures and the role of threat assessment teams
Emergency responses including lockdown and evacuation

Learning Outcomes

Participants will be able to:

Recognize behavioral warning signs that warrant reporting
Use de-escalation techniques in a tense interaction
Report a threat or concern through the correct channel
Describe personal response options during an active emergency

Who Should Attend

Employees in any role
Front desk, reception, and client-facing staff
Supervisors and HR professionals
Staff in public service and community programs

Delivery and Customization

Examples, scenarios, and activities are adapted to your audience and goals. Delivery is available in person, virtually, or in a hybrid format, as a standalone session or as part of a series. Format and length are agreed during scoping.

Related Courses

Crisis Management · Strategy & Problem Solving
Workplace Safety Fundamentals · Technology & Workplace Safety
Managing Anger at Work · Productivity & Wellbeing
Harassment Prevention for All Employees · Teamwork, Culture & Inclusion

Bring Workplace Violence Prevention to your team

Tell us about your audience and goals. We will follow up to scope objectives, format, and timing.

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