What is the correct set of actions to take if you observe threats in the workplace?

• A. Recognize warning signs (unusual behavior, aggression); report to supervisor; seek guidance; follow threat assessment procedures.
• B. Ignore warning signs and continue working until a formal incident occurs.
• C. Confront the individual immediately to de-escalate the situation.
• D. Report threats to coworkers rather than to a supervisor.

Answer: (A)

Recognize dangerous signals early and follow the established response process. In workplace safety, spotting warning signs such as unusual behavior or aggression is the first step, because it gives you a chance to intervene before a situation escalates. Reporting what you’ve observed to a supervisor starts the official response, ensuring the right people—security, HR, or a threat management team—are notified and the proper procedures are set in motion. Seeking guidance means you’re getting direction from those trained to handle these situations, so actions taken are proportional and safe. Following threat assessment procedures provides a structured, documented approach to evaluate risk and determine appropriate safety measures, which protects everyone and maintains due process.

Choosing to ignore warning signs delays help and keeps people at risk. Confronting the individual yourself can provoke the person and put you in harm’s way. Reporting threats to coworkers instead of through the proper supervisor channel bypasses the formal process and can spread misinformation or fail to trigger the necessary protections.