10 workplace violence statistics

Workplace violence is a serious issue that affects many employees across various industries. It can take on many forms, from verbal abuse and harassment to physical assault and even homicide.

Unfortunately, it’s more common than many business owners and managers might think. Understanding the prevalence and impact of workplace violence is essential for creating a safe and productive work environment.

This article will highlight key workplace violence statistics and how knowing this information can positively impact your organization.

What are workplace violence statistics and why are they important?

Workplace violence statistics give you a clearer picture of how often violent incidents occur and what they look like. These numbers are crucial for you as a manager or business owner. They can help you understand the risks your employees face and the potential consequences of workplace violence.

So, why should you care about these statistics? First, they can help you gauge how serious the problem might be within your organization. For example, if your industry has a high incidence of violence, it’s a sign that you may need to implement stronger safety measures.

Second, these stats can inform your workplace policies and training programs, allowing you to address the specific needs of your workforce. If certain roles or departments are more vulnerable to violence, targeted training can make a real difference.

Additionally, being aware of workplace safety statistics helps you create a culture of safety and support. This can also boost employee morale and productivity. Everyone who feels safe at work is more likely to be engaged and committed to their jobs. This not only improves the work environment but also enhances overall organizational performance.

10 workplace violence statistics

By examining these statistics, you can identify trends, spot high-risk situations, and implement effective prevention strategies in place. Let’s go ahead and dive into the essential details:

Workplace violence is a leading cause of fatal injuries in the US

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workplace violence is the third leading cause of fatal occupational injuries in the United States. In 2023, there were 740 fatalities due to violent acts, with homicides accounting for 61.9% of these incidents.

This statistic underscores the urgent need for effective prevention measures in every workplace. The reality is that violence can happen anywhere, and being proactive in addressing these risks is essential.

Nonfatal workplace violence accidents are also common

In 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that around 20,050 workers in the private sector experienced trauma from nonfatal workplace violence, requiring them to take time off work.

This shows that workplace violence isn’t just a concern for high-risk industries; it can affect employees in various sectors. Even seemingly safe environments can be vulnerable, highlighting the need for awareness and training across the company.

Healthcare workers are at higher risk

Healthcare and social assistance workers face a significantly higher risk of experiencing workplace violence. In fact, 73% of nonfatal workplace violence incidents in 2018 occurred in this sector.

Tailored workplace violence prevention training is important for healthcare professionals, who often interact with unpredictable individuals. Hospitals and clinics must create comprehensive safety plans and training programs that address the unique challenges their staff faces.

Women are more likely to experience workplace violence than men

Research shows that women make up a large percentage of workplace violence victims. In 2020, 73% of those who experienced trauma from workplace violence were female.

Organizations should consider gender dynamics when developing their violence prevention strategies. One of the most common types of violence against women is sexual harassment in the workplace. And so, creating a safe environment for all employees, especially women, should be a top priority.

Workplace violence results in lasting effects on employees

Workplace violence can have lasting effects on employees, both physically and psychologically. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their experiences.

Understanding how workplace violence impacts employee well-being is crucial for creating a supportive work environment. If employees are struggling with the after-effects of violence, their productivity and engagement will likely decline, affecting the entire organization.

There were 524 fatal injuries from homicides in 2022

The number of workplace homicides has been on the rise, with 524 fatal injuries due to homicides reported in 2022, marking an 8.9% increase from the previous year. This alarming trend should prompt businesses to prioritize workplace safety and implement effective prevention measures.

The rising numbers serve as a wake-up call for organizations to take action and develop strategies prioritizing employee safety.

In 2021, 29% of workplace homicides happened in retail settings

Apart from healthcare workers, those in the retail industry are also vulnerable to workplace violence. In 2021, nearly 29% of workplace homicides occurred while employees were serving customers or working in retail settings.

Training retail employees to recognize and respond to potentially violent situations can greatly improve their safety. Retail environments can be unpredictable, and staff must be equipped with the skills to de-escalate conflicts and protect themselves.

The role of gun violence in workplace homicides

Workplace homicides remain a stark reminder of the dangers employees can face while on the job. Between 1992 and 2019, there were over 17,000 workplace homicides, with shootings making up the majority of about 79% of these tragic deaths. While workplace homicides have decreased since their peak in the mid-1990s, recent years have seen an uptick.

These incidents don’t just impact the victims and their families, they also leave lasting effects on coworkers and workplaces as a whole. Fear, anxiety, and lower morale often follow such tragedies.

To address this issue, companies can implement stronger security measures. Plus, train employees to handle conflicts and create policies to protect those working in high-risk environments.

The financial repercussions of workplace violence

Workplace violence isn’t just an emotional issue; it’s a financial one, too. It costs U.S. businesses over $130 billion each year due to lost productivity, medical expenses, legal fees, and other related costs.

Investing in prevention measures like better security systems or employee support programs isn’t just the right thing to do. But it’s also a smart financial decision for companies looking to create safer workplaces for everyone involved.

The need for workplace violence prevention training

Bullying and harassment impact millions of employees each year. In early 2021, about 30% of Americans reported experiencing abusive conduct at work. Discrimination cases have also risen steadily, with retaliation (51.6%), racial discrimination (28.6%), and age discrimination (15.6%) being the most common issues reported to the EEOC in 2024.

These behaviors harm individuals and destroy trust within teams. Companies should respond by introducing anti-discrimination policies and offering workplace harassment training to tackle these problems proactively.

Recommended course: California Workplace Violence Prevention by Mitti (by SafetyCulture)

Take action against workplace violence with Mitti (by SafetyCulture)

As a manager or business owner, understanding workplace violence statistics is vital for creating a safe and supportive work environment. Recognizing the prevalence and impact of workplace violence allows you to take proactive steps to protect your employees.

One effective way to achieve this is by utilizing Mitti (by SafetyCulture) for employee learning. This platform offers microlearning courses on workplace violence prevention. These can equip your team with the skills they need to recognize and respond to potential threats.

Investing in your employees' safety and well-being is not just a legal obligation but a moral one. By choosing Mitti (by SafetyCulture), you're taking a significant step toward making sure that your workplace is safe and conducive to productivity.