Workplace violence is a growing concern for businesses across industries. Employers have a responsibility to maintain a safe working environment for their employees, customers, and stakeholders. A critical step in preventing workplace violence is implementing thorough background checks as part of the hiring process. By identifying potential risks early, organizations can safeguard their workforce and minimize security threats before they arise.
The Rise of Workplace Violence Incidents
Workplace violence can take many forms, ranging from verbal abuse and threats to physical altercations and, in extreme cases, violent attacks. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), nearly two million U.S. workers experience workplace violence each year. Factors contributing to this trend include:
Increased workplace stress and mental health challenges
Greater exposure to high-risk individuals in customer-facing roles
The rise in remote and hybrid work environments reducing direct supervision
Failure to conduct thorough background screenings during hiring
Employers who neglect proper screening measures may unknowingly introduce individuals with violent histories into their workforce, increasing the potential for security incidents.
Warning Signs Employers Should Watch For
Employers must recognize early indicators of potentially violent behavior before it escalates into a serious threat. Common warning signs include:
History of violent or aggressive behavior in previous workplaces
Frequent conflicts with colleagues or customers
Excessive anger or difficulty managing emotions
Threats of harm or intimidation tactics
History of substance abuse or criminal activity
While these behaviors do not automatically indicate a security threat, they serve as red flags that warrant further investigation during the hiring process.
Types of Background Checks That Help
A comprehensive background screening process can help employers assess candidates for potential risks before extending job offers. The following types of background checks play a crucial role in preventing workplace violence:
1. Criminal History Checks
Examining an applicant’s criminal record provides insights into past offenses, including violent crimes, domestic abuse, or felony convictions. Employers must comply with Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines and state laws when using criminal records in hiring decisions.
2. Employment History Verification
Contacting previous employers allows hiring managers to gather information on a candidate’s behavior in past workplaces. Gaps in employment or abrupt resignations may indicate potential red flags.
3. Reference Checks
Speaking with former supervisors and colleagues provides firsthand accounts of a candidate’s temperament, work ethic, and ability to resolve conflicts professionally.
4. Drug Testing and Substance Abuse Screening
Employees under the influence of drugs or alcohol may be more prone to violent outbursts or reckless behavior. Pre-employment drug testing can help mitigate these risks.
5. Psychological Assessments
For roles involving high stress or sensitive responsibilities, psychological evaluations help assess an applicant’s ability to manage conflict and handle pressure effectively.
Case Study: How Proper Screening Prevented a Security Threat
A large retail chain recently faced a situation where a background check helped prevent a workplace security incident. A candidate for a managerial position had an extensive criminal history, including multiple assault charges. However, their resume omitted any mention of these offenses, and their self-reported employment history was fabricated.
The employer’s comprehensive background check flagged the discrepancies, prompting a deeper investigation. The company ultimately rescinded the job offer, avoiding a potential security risk to employees and customers.
This case highlights the importance of thorough screenings in identifying high-risk individuals before they become a liability to the organization.
Steps Businesses Can Take to Enhance Workplace Safety
Employers can strengthen their workplace safety measures by adopting proactive background screening policies. Recommended strategies include:
1. Establishing a Consistent Screening Policy
Standardizing background check procedures ensures that every candidate undergoes the same level of scrutiny, reducing potential hiring biases and security risks.
2. Implementing Continuous Monitoring
Rather than limiting background checks to pre-employment screening, organizations can implement ongoing monitoring to detect new criminal activity or behavioral concerns in existing employees.
3. Training HR and Hiring Managers on Threat Detection
Educating HR teams on recognizing warning signs of violent behavior equips them with the tools to make informed hiring decisions.
4. Creating a Safe Reporting Culture
Encouraging employees to report concerns about workplace safety fosters a secure and supportive work environment.
Take the Next Step Toward a Safer Workplace
Workplace violence is a preventable issue—but is your organization doing enough to mitigate the risk? By implementing rigorous background screening policies, conducting criminal history checks, verifying references, and using continuous monitoring, businesses can significantly reduce security threats.
Are you ready to strengthen your hiring process and protect your workforce? Partner with KENTECH Consulting, Inc. for industry-leading background investigation solutions that help identify risks before they become liabilities.
Schedule your free consultation today and take proactive steps toward a safer workplace.
