Threatened with violence at work

[Limer]

My DP's colleague threatened to "punch his lights out" at work today. DP immediately reported the incident to their manager, who has promised a meeting first thing on Monday to sort everything out. Problem is that the incident wasn't witnessed by anyone else, so it's his word against his colleague's. DP does not want to work alongside this colleague any more, and he does not think he should put up with this sort of behaviour from the colleague.

Should DP insist on HR being present at the meeting? What else should he do to prepare for this?

He should get hold of his employer's bullying and harassment policy, and their grievance policy and use them to help him decide the most appropriate route. There are often recommended "informal" stages, but they may not be appropriate in the case of threatened violence. I think having HR present would be a good idea for everybody's sake.

If he doesn't feel it's been taken sufficiently seriously, he could consider involving the police. Criminal law doesn't stop at the factory gates.

I had this problem with an another woman once when i worked in a care home.

The manager thought it was best to take us both into an empty room and thrash out our differences!

Thanks Sandthorn - he will ask for those policies and for HR representation.

OMG CountingThePennies!

Any more feedback/experiences most welcome please.

My response would of been 'go on then!!'

He should write down all other instances of threats and bullying/intimidating behaviour.

And definitely keep his cool in that meeting. The other dick will try and make him angry. He needs to stay cool calm and collected. Speak the facts. As only liars embellish! X