Violence and threats
When going to work becomes dangerous
Violence and threats in the workplace must be taken seriously, as being exposed to such situations at work can have significant consequences for employees. The impact can be far-reaching, leading to insecurity during daily tasks, a lack of motivation, increased sickness absence, or even staff turnover. On a personal level, employees may experience insomnia, racing thoughts, or, in the worst cases, develop PTSD.
The Danish Working Environment Authority (Arbejdstilsynet) emphasises in its regulation on the psychological working environment that work at all levels must be planned, organised, and carried out in a manner that is fully responsible in terms of safety and health, both in the short and long term, with regard to the risk of work-related violence – both during and outside of working hours.
At Human House, we can support your organisation with both preventative and responsive initiatives. Drawing on the latest research and knowledge in the field, we work closely with you to develop tailored solutions – because we believe this collaborative approach brings the greatest value to both management and staff. A safe workplace requires a dedicated focus on both the prevention and management of violence and threats.
How we can help your workplace manage and prevent violence and threats
- Urgent crisis intervention with options for follow-up
- Defusing and debriefing at both individual and group level
- Facilitation of workshops for health and safety groups or entire teams
- Consultation for leaders dealing with specific incidents
- Advice on relevant health and safety legislation
- Guidance on risk assessment in relation to violence and threats
- Supervision for teams at risk of experiencing violence or threats during their work
- Development of guidelines or procedures
- Training in de-escalating and conflict-preventing communication
- Training in psychological first aid for leaders, employee representatives, or entire teams.
Learn how to manage violence and threats in the workplace
As an employee, it is important to understand what to do if faced with violence or threats, whether you or a colleague encounter a dangerous situation. By investing in training and clear procedures, you empower your employees to react quickly and appropriately when risks arise. Ongoing follow-up, evaluation, and open dialogue all contribute to a healthier working environment, where everyone feels safe, heard, and respected.
Violence and threats should never become an isolated, individual problem. It is vital that managers and staff work together to prevent dangerous situations from occurring.
11% of all women have experienced threats of violence at work within the past 12 months, while the corresponding figure for men is 5.9%. Public sector employees are exposed to violence and threats more frequently than those in the private sector.
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