Workplace violence incident log template

Use the completed logs to identify patterns in location, timing, or circumstances where violence occurs. Review the “Contributing Factors” and “Lessons Learned” sections across multiple incidents to spot recurring issues. The “Corrective Actions” field helps track implemented solutions and their effectiveness. Regular analysis of these logs enables you to develop targeted prevention strategies, adjust security measures, and enhance training programs where most needed.

Complete the log as soon as possible after an incident occurs, ideally within 24 hours when details are fresh in everyone’s mind. Even if you don’t have all information immediately, start the documentation process and update it as more facts become available. For serious incidents requiring immediate medical attention or police involvement, prioritize those responses first, then complete the log once the situation is stabilized.

The responsibility typically falls to the direct supervisor of the affected area, the safety manager, or an HR representative who was notified about the incident. Some organizations designate a workplace violence response team member to ensure consistent documentation. Regardless of who completes it, ensure they’ve been trained on proper documentation practices and understand the importance of factual, comprehensive reporting.

An incident qualifies as workplace violence if it involves any threatening behavior, verbal abuse, physical assault, or property damage that occurs in the workplace or is work-related. This includes threats, intimidation, harassment, assaults, or other actions that create fear or concern for personal safety. When in doubt, document the incident—it’s better to have too much documentation than too little when analyzing workplace safety trends.