Attacked on the job

Violence in the workplace has many faces

Systematic bullying is also a form of violence. Those affected often suffer in silence out of shame.(Bild: Wodicka Erwin)

Bullying, discrimination, physical attacks - violence at work has many faces. It mainly affects people in service professions. The workplace should not be a place where you have to worry about your safety. However, the reality is different for many. ÖGB Tirol warns of far-reaching consequences. Those who do not seek help often suffer.

When you think of violence, you probably think of physical attacks. But violence starts much earlier: "For example, with insults, humiliation or exclusion," says Philip Wohlgemuth, Chairman of the Austrian Trade Union Confederation (ÖGB) Tyrol. All sectors are affected, but especially public transport, gastronomy and the hotel industry, the security sector, healthcare, nursing, emergency services, service professions, money processing and public administration (see chart). According to Wohlgemuth, facilities with solitary or secluded and isolated workplaces are also at risk.