• Emergency Operations
• Notification in an Emergency
• Emergency Procedures
  • Incident Command
  • Evacuation Procedures
  • Fire/Explosions
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Workplace Violence
  • Bomb Threats/Searches
  • Earthquakes
  • Medical/First Aid Emergencies
  • Emergency Supplies
  • Important Phone Numbers
• Emergency Telephones
• Department Emergency Plan
• Media
• Cell Phones
• Site Map

workplace violence

When threatened by an individual, take these steps in defusing hostility and aggression:

• Remain calm and non-threatening.
• When given the opportunity, call 9-1-1. State your name, department, and the location of the threat.
• Keep at least 3 to 6 feet from the individual.
• Avoid any type of challenging stance (hands on hips, face to face, etc.).
• Speak clearly with a moderate tone, volume, and rate of speech.
• Listen to what the person says. Appear supportive and empathic.
• Do not talk with your hands.
• Do not point at the individual.
• Do not threaten, argue, or treat the individual in a disrespectful manner.
• Develop a code with co-workers that signals the need for a University Police response.

If a weapon is involved:

• Explain your movements at all times - DO NOT make any quick moves.
• Speak softly and clearly.
• Cooperate fully with all demands.
• Attempt to negotiate increased distance between yourself and the individual.
• Withdraw and summon assistance when able.
• Call 9-1-1. State your name, department, and location.