When dealing with verbal threats in the workplace, what is the best initial response?

The most appropriate initial response when facing verbal threats in the workplace is to ensure the safety of everyone and comply with the threat. By prioritizing safety, you help to de-escalate the situation and prevent potential harm to yourself and others. This response emphasizes the importance of maintaining a secure environment where immediate physical confrontation or confrontation of the individual making the threat may lead to further escalation and risk of injury.

In situations involving threats, the focus should be on creating a safe distance from the potential danger while also taking the situation seriously. Complying with the threat does not mean yielding to all demands but rather ensuring that individuals are out of harm's way until the situation can be assessed and managed appropriately. Getting assistance may come later, but initial reactions should always be oriented toward protection and de-escalation.