“Occupational violence and aggression sit on a sliding scale that’s defined differently by individuals and organisations. Recognising and responding appropriately requires awareness, context, and clear boundaries.” —Nathan, ADP Framework Founder
Workplaces across Australia are waking up to the reality that occupational violence and aggression (OVA) are not just about rare, headline-making incidents. Instead, OVA is a spectrum—a sliding scale that can range from subtle intimidation and verbal hostility to outright physical harm.
What makes this issue especially complex is that each person and each organisation may draw the line in a different place. For one employee, a raised voice might feel threatening; for another, it’s just part of a tough day at work. For one business, a customer’s angry outburst is “just part of the job”; for another, it’s a red flag that demands immediate action.
This variability is why OVA training is so essential—and why it can’t be a one-size-fits-all approach. As Nathan from ADP wisely points out, recognising and responding to OVA requires more than just a list of “dos and don’ts.” It demands a deeper level of awareness, a keen understanding of context, and the establishment of clear boundaries.
Awareness: The First Line of Defence
Awareness is the foundation of effective OVA prevention. Staff must be able to spot the early warning signs of aggression—whether it’s a change in body language, a shift in tone, or a pattern of escalating behaviour.
But awareness isn’t just about noticing what’s happening around you; it’s also about understanding your own responses and triggers. OVA training helps employees and leaders become more attuned to both the environment and themselves, making it easier to intervene early and prevent situations from spiralling out of control.
Context: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Context matters. A behaviour that’s considered aggressive in one industry or culture might be seen as normal in another. For example, a hospital emergency department will have a different threshold for what constitutes aggression compared to a corporate office.
Custom OVA training tailored to the specific context of your organisation ensures that everyone is on the same page about what is—and isn’t—acceptable. This contextual understanding empowers staff to make informed decisions and respond appropriately, rather than overreacting or, worse, ignoring serious warning signs.
Boundaries: The Power of Clarity
Clear boundaries are the backbone of a safe and respectful workplace. When employees know what behaviour is unacceptable and what actions will be taken in response, they feel safer and more confident.
OVA training helps organisations articulate these boundaries through robust policies, practical scenarios, and open discussions. It also encourages staff to set and communicate their own boundaries, fostering a culture of mutual respect and accountability.
Why our training matters
When workplaces invest in OVA training that emphasises awareness, context, and boundaries, they create environments where staff feel empowered, supported, and prepared. This not only reduces the risk of harm but also boosts morale, retention, and overall organisational resilience.
Nathan’s insight reminds us that OVA is not black and white. By recognising the sliding scale and equipping people with the tools to navigate it, organisations can move from a reactive stance to a proactive, prevention-focused culture—one where everyone’s safety and dignity are protected.
Ready to strengthen your organisation’s approach to OVA? Start by fostering awareness, understanding your unique context, and setting clear boundaries. The difference will be felt by every member of your team.
Contact us by phone or through the form below to talk about custom ova training for your workplace.
