The 4 Types of Workplace Violence (Most Companies Miss One) - CPPS

Most organizations prepare for workplace violence… but only focus on one or two types. That’s where the real risk begins. In this episode, we break down the four types of workplace violence and why missing even one can leave your organization exposed. We cover: • Criminal (no relationship, target of opportunity) • Customer/Client (service and healthcare interactions) • Worker-on-Worker (internal conflicts) • Interpersonal/Domestic (the most underreported — and often most dangerous) The reality is that organizations tend to prepare for what they see most often — and ignore what they don’t. That “blinders” effect creates gaps that only show up when it’s too late. We also discuss how prevention looks different for each type, from physical security and de-escalation training to building strong workplace culture and supporting employees dealing with personal crises. One of the biggest takeaways: Workplace violence prevention isn’t just about policies — it’s about people. Encouraging reporting, protecting confidentiality, and providing real support systems like EAPs can make the difference between escalation and intervention. If you’re building a more complete workplace violence prevention program, it starts with understanding all four risks. To learn more, visit cpps.com. Like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more insights on building safer organizations.