“Workplace Violence”
Towards a Global Standard for Workplace Conduct

Glenn French

Regardless of how “workplace violence” is ultimately defined, the broader issue has galvanized the attention of legislators, unions, employers and others who are involved in welfare of workers worldwide. The study of workplace violence is both multi-faceted and highly-complex. This demands a multidisciplinary approach which draws on expertise from law, psychology, medicine, labour relations and policy development, to name a few. However, arriving at a better understanding of the etiology of occupational aggression is admittedly the first step in a longer journey to eradicate this escalating occupational risk. Understanding and minimizing violence at work is now much harder given the “globalization” of labour. In addressing this already complicated issue, we must take into consideration, international law, monitory policy, trade regulations, not to mention the thorny issues associated with cultural accountability and compatibility, which is a flashpoint in today’s world.

The task before us is monumental which requires a concerted effort of international, national and regional governments. Working in cooperation with transnational corporations, NGO’s, unions and human rights groups, these organizations continue to drawn attention to this cause.

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No one person or organization can claim absolute authority over the emerging issue of workplace violence. Nor can any publication provide simple answers to the multitude of questions which plague this subject matter. This article is, but an overview of work done by my colleagues, many of whom I have never met, yet somehow I have become acquainted with them through their research and commentary. Each has made a significant contribution to the study of workplace violence, and this article is, in part, a tribute to their hard work, dedication and foresight. My contribution is to weave some of their concepts and ideas together, mixed with my own, to attempt to present a coherent picture of workplace violence from a global perspective, ever mindful that I will in all likelihood fall short of such an ambitious goal. My hope is that you the reader, will have your interest peaked. But more importantly, may it prompt you to join us in our collective efforts to better understand this troubling phenomenon, from whatever vantage point you choose.

The Essence of Work

At a time when over one third of the world’s populations live on less than two dollars a day; when child poverty and forced labour continue unabated and the benefits of “Globalization” have yet to be realized; the mere mention of “workplace violence” might seem trite and almost insignificant. Some might argue that this preoccupation with occupational etiquette is a “privileged worry” and confined to nations where an individual’s survival is no longer in question. The stark reality is that many have little alternative but to endure hazards at work, when faced with the shame and hardship of poverty. For many, this is a choice made every day; a choice which is a basic affront to human rights, personal dignity and self worth.

Regardless of the country, culture or time, “work” is a universal pursuit, providing the recipient with the very fundamentals of living; ranging from “self actualization” to the most basic of physiological needs. The nature and importance of work straddles a wide continuum of experience, depending on the circumstances. For the indentured or enslaved worker, the overriding goal is simply to survive in a dangerous and hostile environment - their workplace. This is in marked contrast to the North American or European businessman or woman who has the luxury of enjoying the personal and financial rewards of an occupation which has little or no bearing on their day-to-day survival. According to Maslow (1962) and other pioneering theorists in Humanistic Psychology, (Alderfer, 1972; James, 1962; Mathes, 1981; Deci et al., 1991), one of our intrinsic needs is for a safe environment. This is a common goal for all mankind, regardless of their position in life or the work they do; or the culture they share.