Workplace violence is a serious safety and health issue. While no federal law currently addresses violence in the workplace, several laws impose a duty on employers to maintain a safe workplace.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) imposes a general duty on all employers to provide employees with a workplace that is free from hazards. Federal civil rights laws also require employers to keep the workplace free from threats of violence and federal workers’ compensation laws hold employers responsible for injuries sustained by employees while performing job-related duties. In addition to federal requirements, Pennsylvania law also places a duty on employers to provide employees with a safe workplace.