UC Berkeley Workplace Violence Prevention

California state law requires every employer to establish, implement, and maintain an effective Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (California Labor Code, Section 6401.9(link is external)). Consistent with its legal obligations, UC Berkeley is committed to providing a safe learning and work environment that is free from threats and acts of violence.


Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) is the responsible department for overseeing the campuswide Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (PDF file). The following information introduces the Workplace Violence Prevention campus procedures, roles and responsibilities, required training, and the appropriate steps for reporting and recordkeeping incidents. Review the information below or view the full campuswide Workplace Violence Prevention Policy(link is external). The University will respond promptly to  threats or acts of violence against UC employees.  For questions or concerns about workplace violence, the plan, training, hazard assessments, or other issues, please email wpvp@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail)

Workplace Violence Prevention (WPVP) Overview

Reporting Procedures

All members of the UC Berkeley community have an obligation to help maintain a safe work environment.  Acts or Threats of workplace violence behavior must be reported. The University shall maintain the confidentiality of workplace violence investigations to the extent possible. Employees may report workplace violence without fear of reprisal or retaliation. 

During emergencies/immediate threats

If there is an immediate threat of violence, call the UC Berkeley Police Department (UCPD) by dialing (510) 642-3333 or by calling 911 from any campus phone.

During non-emergency/non-imminent violence situations

Other acts or threats of violence that do not present an immediate emergency situation should be reported via the UC Workplace Violence Online Reporting tool(link is external) or by contacting the WPVP Plan Administrator at EH&S at wpvp@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail)

These situations may involve verbal or written threats, including, but not limited to texts, electronic messages, social media messages, or other online posts. If it is uncertain whether there is an immediate threat of violence or hostility, contact UCPD.

Confidential Resource

Employees facing work or non-work related situations that involve threats, violence, or the potential for violence are encouraged to seek free professional support through Be Well at Work - Employee Assistance(link is external).  Employee Assistance is a confidential resource which cannot disclose any information without permission from the client except as required by law.  Contact Employee Assistance at 510-643-7754 or employeeassistance@berkeley.edu(link sends e-mail).

Emergency ⚠

If this is an immediate threat:

Please Dial 911 from a campus phone, or contact UCPD from a cell phone if there's a violent or hostile situation in progress.

After contacting UCPD, report the incident to the Office for the Prevention of Harassment & Discrimination (OPHD).