Message #11282

[dedlered]

This was taken from USA Today, this morning...





HOW TO SPOT, DEAL WITH POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS WORKER



No single profile fits everyone who has or will commit violence in the workplace.  Experts agree, however, that those likely to become violent exhibit some common traits.



A common profile is someone who:



1.  Has experienced a prolonged period of frustration.

2.  Blames everyone but himself for his problems.

3.  Has experienced some catastrophic loss, such as being fired.

4.  Is a loner.

5.  Has access to weapons.



 

Signs a co-worker should look for:



1.  Direct or veiled threats.

2.  Intimidating or aggressive behavior.

3.  Bringing a weapon to the workplace.

4.  Talking about other violent workplace incidents.

5.  Desperate statements.

6.  Extreme changes in behavior.





What employers can do to minimize risk:



1.  Encourage employeed to report incidents.

2.  Provide training in stress management.

3.  Help workers facing unemployment find other jobs.

4.  Offer employee assistance programs to deal with stress.



*Sources:  Jack Levin, director of Northeastern University's Brudnick Center on Violence and Conflict: U.S. Offie of Personnel Management