Safety for all FSIS employees is of paramount concern to the Agency. The FSIS Anti-Harassment/Workplace Violence Prevention and Response Program provides guidance, training, reporting systems, and management of incidents related to workplace violence prevention and response. Workplace violence is any type of violence, threat, intimidation, assault, retaliation, harassment, interference, or other disruptive behavior in the workplace. Harassment and workplace violence will not be tolerated in FSIS because it is harmful to employees, and it prevents us from fulfilling our mission. No one can predict when this type of behavior will occur, which makes it even more important to be aware of the warning signs. 

A threat is any gesture or oral or written expression that conveys intent to cause physical harm to persons or property. Critical threats are the actual use or display of firearms or other weapons with intent to harm, physical hitting, pushing, emotional verbal threats, destroying property, and stalking. Developmental threats are verbal or written remarks, conversations involving talk of guns that are perceived as threatening, nonverbal threats, and menacing gestures.

Anti-Harassment/Workplace Violence Prevention and Response Program Contacts

• 24 Hour Helpline Number: 1-877-987-3747 (1-877-WVP-FSIS)
• Email: workplaceviolenceprevention@usda.gov 

For Incidents of Imminent Danger

• Find a safe place
• Call 911
• Call OIG: 1-800-424-9192
• Call Supervisor
• Document on FSIS Form 4735-4: https://ohrportal.fsis.usda.gov/services/workplace-violence-prevention/form-4735/
• REPORT ALL INCIDENTS: https://ohrportal.fsis.usda.gov

The key to preventing workplace violence is to recognize the warning signs and involve the appropriate resources as soon as possible. Timely notification and documentation of potential problems is essential. Be familiar with Agency policy, directives, and contact information so that you can take the steps necessary for ensuring a safe workplace. For more information, send an email to workplaceviolenceprevention@usda.gov or call (877) 987-3747.

For more OHR information visit the OHR Portal, call 877-FSIS-HR1 (374-7471), or send an email to FSISHR1@usda.gov.