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Workplace Violence

Faculty, staff, and students are expected to treat each other with respect. Demeaning, intimidating, threatening, or violent behaviors that affect the ability to learn, work, or Áñ—†ÊÓƵ will not be tolerated in our academic community.

Áñ—†ÊÓƵ workplace violence

Violence is behavior that causes harm to a person or damage to property or causes fear for one’s safety or the safety of others. Such behavior is unacceptable at Áñ—†ÊÓƵ. 

Workplace violence means any act or threat of violence, including:

• Physical harm or risk of physical harm
• Verbal statements of intent to harm
• Verbal harassment

It is important to be aware that, per University policy, Áñ—†ÊÓƵ prohibits the possession, use, or storage of the following on any property owned, leased, or controlled by the University:

• Firearms (regardless of the existence of a valid concealed carry permit)
• Other lethal or non-lethal weapons
• Fireworks/explosive devices
• Other dangerous objects or materials 

When to report workplace violence – potential warning signs 

A potentially violent person may display one or more warning signs that may intensify over time. The apparent presence of mental illness alone is not predictive of future violence and, as such, should not be the sole determining factor in reporting an individual’s behavior.

• Displays unwarranted anger
• Expresses plan to hurt self or others
• Marked mood swings
• Fascination with weaponry and/or acts of violence
• Unwarranted or extreme distrust or perception of persecution
• Frequent interpersonal conflicts
• Strong external reactions to criticism
• Lack of concern for the safety of others
• Threatening communication in any form
• Physical reactions—e.g., clenching fists, pacing, etc.
• See the Behavioral Consultation Program page for other concerning behaviors

What to do if you are concerned or need to report workplace violence

If there is an immediate threat or an act of violence has occurred, dial 911.

If you become aware of or are concerned that anyone may pose a threat to the Áñ—†ÊÓƵ community, contact University Police at 847-491-3456 (Evanston) or 312-503-3456 (Chicago).

Any concern is worth raising, particularly if you think the safety of the individual in question or the safety of others may be at risk. Resources and support for how to approach non-emergency behaviors that may be concerning, but not to the level of workplace violence, can be found here.

De-escalating a crisis situation

The following behaviors may be helpful to de-escalate an interaction with a potentially dangerous person. Make your personal safety the top priority. 

• Position yourself so that the other person cannot block your access to an exit.
• Avoid physically touching the individual or trying to force them to leave.
• Move away from objects, such as scissors, that could be used as a weapon.
• Project calmness. Raising your own voice may increase the anxiety of the other person.
• Be a good listener. Encourage the individual to talk, and listen patiently.
• Maintain a relaxed yet attentive posture. Avoid challenging body language such as placing hands on your hips, moving toward the other person, or staring directly at them. If seated, remain in your chair and do not turn your back to the other person.
• Acknowledge the person's feelings. Neither agree with distorted statements, nor attempt to argue.
• Avoid defensive statements.

Resources and support

• For guidance with potential harassment and for information on how to manage these incidents, contact Human Resources. One possible resource offered through HR is .
• Employees seeking support with these matters can contact , a counseling, evaluation, and referral service that is confidential and free to Áñ—†ÊÓƵ faculty and staff. You can reach a confidential licensed Care Advocate clinician directly by phone 24/7/365 who will provide in-the-moment support, resources and tools.
• Áñ—†ÊÓƵ’s Behavioral Consultation Team considers potential threats that might impact the safety or well-being of the campus community and provides guidance for mitigating them. Non-emergency concerns regarding threatening statements or behaviors can be reported by using . For further information, review the .
• The University Policy on Non-Retaliation prohibits taking any retaliatory action for reporting or inquiring about alleged improper or wrongful activity.  
• Review the University’s Guidance on Civility and Violence.