N
The Global Insight

What do you do if you are physically attacked at work?

Author

John Johnson

Updated on April 05, 2026

What to Do if Attacked at Work. Whenever an attack occurs, the first thing to do is call the police. Even if the attacker has left the scene, creating an accurate police report can go a long way to establishing your rights in both criminal and civil cases.

How do you respond to a verbal threat?

Use calm body language. Take a deep breath and exhale. Look as calm and as certain of yourself as you can. Look into the eyes of the person you are speaking to, but don’t stare them down, as this can appear threatening. Get eye-level with the agitated person.

Can you sue employer for verbal abuse?

You may be able to sue your employer for verbal abuse if you can prove that the harassment is due to discrimination under California law. You may also be able to sue if you can prove the abuse has created an unsafe working environment under CalOSHA regulations.

How to respond to a verbal attack at work?

A natural reaction to a verbal assault is to tense up and begin breathing rapidly – or not at all. Become aware of your breathing, taking air in by your mouth and expelling it through your nose. That will help you control your reactions and not behave unprofessionally even when the other person is acting like a jerk.

Can a physical attack at work result in disciplinary action?

Violence is rarely the answer, and this is especially true in the workplace. Yet, physical attacks can and do occur every day. When they happen at work, this creates a whole suite of considerations that can make the experience even more worrisome and problematic. For example, will the attack result in disciplinary action?

What happens if you get attacked at work?

If the attack has a sexual element, it might become rape or sexual battery, which could carry a heavier criminal sentence and an increased monetary award for physical injuries and psychological harm. However, beyond the actual attacker, there is also a possibility for liability among other entities. The employer itself is the most obvious target.

What should I do if I am assaulted at work?

What Should I Do If I Am Assaulted at Work? If you are assaulted at work whether the attack is physical or psychological, the first thing to do is remove yourself from any danger and to get to a safe place. If you have been physically attacked and injured, you should seek medical attention straight away as a matter of urgency.