When an Employee is Threatened at Work: What You Need to Know
Work should be a place where you feel safe, respected, and valued. But what happens when that sense of security is shattered because someone threatens you at work? Whether it’s a coworker, a supervisor, or even a client, workplace threats can leave you feeling vulnerable, anxious, and unsure of what to do next.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about handling threats at work—from recognizing threatening behavior to taking legal action. Let’s dive in.
What Constitutes a Threat in the Workplace?
Before we get into how to handle threats, it’s important to understand what qualifies as threatening behavior. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, threatening behavior can include:
Verbal threats: Statements like “I’ll get you for this” or “You better watch your back.”
Physical intimidation: Aggressive gestures, blocking someone’s path, or invading personal space.
Written threats: Emails, texts, or notes that express intent to harm.
Indirect threats: Comments like “Someone’s going to pay for this” or “If I had a gun right now…”
Even if the threat is made “in jest,” it can still be considered serious if it creates a hostile work environment.
What to Do If You’re Threatened at Work
1. Document Everything
The first step is to document the incident. Write down the date, time, location, people involved, and any witnesses. If the threat was written (like an email or text), save a copy. This documentation will be crucial if you need to escalate the issue.
2. Report It to Your Supervisor or HR
Next, report the threat to your supervisor or HR department. According to USA.gov, employers are legally obligated to address workplace harassment and threats. If your supervisor doesn’t take action, escalate the issue to higher management or HR.
3. Know Your Legal Rights
Under both California and federal employment laws, workers are protected from harassment, undue stress, and unsafe working environments. If your employer fails to address the threat, you may have grounds to sue for unlawful harassment or discrimination. For more on this, check out Workplace Rights Law.
4. Contact Law Enforcement if Necessary
If the threat is severe or you feel your safety is at risk, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement. As outlined in the FCC’s Threat and Intimidation Response Guide, threats that involve violence or imminent harm should be reported immediately.
Can You Sue Your Employer for Threatening You?
Yes, you can. If your employer or supervisor threatens you, it may constitute a hostile work environment. Under the Be HEARD in the Workplace Act, employees have the right to take legal action against employers who fail to address workplace harassment or threats.
For example, if your boss threatens to fire you for reporting harassment, that could be considered illegal retaliation. In such cases, consulting an employment lawyer is your best course of action.
How to Handle a Hostile Employee
Dealing with a hostile employee can be tricky, but here are some tips:
Stay Calm: Avoid escalating the situation.
Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate what behavior is unacceptable.
Document Incidents: Keep a record of any hostile behavior.
Involve HR: Report the behavior to HR and let them handle it.
For more on this, check out CCL’s guide on dealing with difficult employees.
What Are the Consequences of Making Threats at Work?
If an employee makes a threat, the consequences can be severe. Depending on the company’s policies and the severity of the threat, the employee could face:
Suspension without pay
Disciplinary action
Termination
In some cases, the employee may even face criminal charges.
How to Protect Yourself from Workplace Threats
1. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore your gut feeling.
2. Stay Calm and Composed
If someone threatens you, remain calm. Avoid making eye contact or engaging in an argument.
3. Seek Support
Talk to a trusted colleague, friend, or family member about what happened. You don’t have to go through this alone.
4. Know Your Resources
Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies on workplace violence and harassment. If your employer doesn’t have a clear policy, refer to Kingsley & Kingsley’s guide on reporting workplace harassment.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Threats Go Unaddressed
Workplace threats are serious and should never be ignored. Whether you’re dealing with a hostile coworker, an intimidating boss, or a threatening client, it’s important to take action to protect yourself and your rights.
Remember, you’re not alone. There are laws, resources, and support systems in place to help you navigate these challenging situations. If you’ve been threatened at work, don’t hesitate to speak up and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety.
