# Workplace violence

URL: https://hardhatbinder.com/en/toolbox-talks/workplace-violence
Last updated: 2026-10-23

Workplace violence is any threat, harassment, or physical attack on the job. It can come from a coworker, a customer, a stranger, or someone's personal life showing up on site. We work in open sites, homes, and public areas, so this week let's talk about how to spot trouble early and keep each other safe.

## Key points

1. Report threats, harassment, or intimidation to the foreman right away, even if it seems like a joke. We take every report seriously, and you will not get in trouble for speaking up.
2. If an argument starts to heat up, step back, keep your voice calm, and walk away. Do not push, shove, or answer threats with threats.
3. Watch for warning signs in people around you, like yelling, sudden anger, talk about hurting someone, or showing a weapon. Tell the foreman what you saw.
4. If someone on site does not belong there, do not confront them alone. Let the foreman or site supervisor handle it, and call 911 if you feel threatened.
5. Use the buddy system when working alone in a home, early mornings, late shifts, or in isolated areas. Let someone know where you are and when you expect to finish.
6. Keep tools, keys, and cash secured, and lock trucks and job boxes. It reduces the chance of theft turning into a confrontation.
7. Know the closest exit and the site address so you can get out and give 911 the right location fast.

## Talk it over

- Has anyone ever felt unsafe with a customer, a passerby, or someone on one of our sites? What happened?
- Where on this site could someone walk in without being noticed, and what can we do about it?
- If two people started fighting right here, what would you do and who would you tell?

> **Remember:** Stay calm, walk away, and speak up: no job is worth a fight.

## Official sources

- [OSHA](https://www.osha.gov/workplace-violence) — Workplace violence

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Source: HardHat Binder, operated by Leadspire LLC. Templates to be reviewed by a competent person before use; not legal advice; not affiliated with OSHA.