How is "workplace violence" defined?

The definition of "workplace violence" includes any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, or intimidation within the workplace. This broad definition encompasses a wide range of behaviors, from outright physical assaults to threats and psychological intimidation, recognizing that violence can manifest in various forms. By including harassment and intimidation, it acknowledges that not all workplace violence is physical and that psychological impacts can be equally damaging.

This comprehensive understanding is critical for creating effective prevention and response strategies, as it allows organizations to address various forms of violence that can affect employee safety and wellbeing. In contrast, the other definitions provided are either too narrow or not fully representative of the broader issues surrounding workplace violence. For example, focusing solely on physical confrontations or verbal disagreements does not capture the full spectrum of behaviors that can contribute to a hostile or unsafe work environment.