What Does ‘Going Postal’ Mean?

Origins of the Phrase

The phrase “going postal” originated in the early 1990s, when several incidents of workplace violence occurred at United States Postal Service facilities. The most notable case was the 1986 Edmund Burke massacre, in which 14 people were killed and six were injured by Patrick Henry Sherrill, a postal worker at a post office in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Following these incidents, the term “going postal” became synonymous with workplace violence, particularly in the postal service. It is believed that the phrase originated from the intense stress and pressure that postal workers often experience, leading to psychological issues and even violence in some cases.

Meaning and Usage

Today, the phrase “going postal” is used to describe any instance of extreme workplace violence, not just those that occur in the postal service. It is often used in a humorous or sarcastic way, but it can also be used seriously to describe the potential dangers of workplace violence.

The phrase implies that the person who “went postal” has lost control and is acting out of anger, frustration, or desperation. It is often associated with mass shootings and other violent incidents that occur in the workplace.

Here are some examples of how the phrase might be used:

• He was so angry at his boss that he threatened to go postal.
• After being laid off, he went postal and shot up his former workplace.
• The company is doing everything they can to prevent a ‘going postal’ situation.

Preventing Workplace Violence

While the phrase “going postal” is often used in a humorous way, workplace violence is a serious issue that can have devastating consequences. Employers should take steps to create a safe and supportive work environment for their employees, and employees should be aware of the signs of workplace violence and report any concerns to their supervisors.

Here are some tips for preventing workplace violence:

• Create a culture of respect and zero tolerance for violence.
• Provide employees with resources to manage stress and resolve conflicts peacefully.
• Be aware of the signs of workplace violence and report any concerns to supervisors.
• Train employees on how to respond to an active shooter or other workplace violence situation.

By taking these steps, employers and employees can work together to prevent workplace violence and create a safer and more productive work environment.

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