What should be done if an incident involving violence at work is observed?

In the event of observing an incident involving violence in the workplace, the priority is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to address the situation responsibly. Reporting the incident to the appropriate authorities immediately is crucial because it initiates a response that can help de-escalate the situation, protect individuals who may be at risk, and provide a formal record of the incident. This action allows trained professionals, such as security personnel or law enforcement, to intervene appropriately, ensuring that the matter is handled in a way that minimizes further risk or harm.

Waiting to see if the situation escalates can lead to greater danger for both the observer and those involved, as it does not provide any immediate action to mitigate potential harm. Discussing the incident with coworkers first might lead to misinformation, delay in reporting, and potentially expose more people to risk. Leaving the scene quickly can be prudent in some scenarios, but it does not contribute to addressing the incident or protecting others who might be in danger. Thus, the most responsible and effective action to take in this scenario is to report the incident immediately to the appropriate authorities.