It starts small.
Maybe they snap at you.
Maybe they say stuff you don’t like.
You brush it off. You try.
But it keeps coming.
And then one day, bam. You feel threatened.
You sit there, heart pounding, wondering—what now?
Where do you even turn?
You’re not alone. This happens. More than you think.
Let’s talk real. No fancy jargon. No angry shouting. Just straight talk.
First Things First: What Counts as a Threat?
Not every bad word is a threat. But many are.
Threats come sneaky. Or loud.
Like:
“If you speak up, I’ll ruin you.”
“Take that day off? Forget your job.”
“I’ll make your life miserable.”
“Keep your mouth shut.”
Could be words. Could be a look.
Could be standing too close, blocking your way.
The message is clear. Intimidate.
And that? That’s not just wrong. Often, it’s illegal.
Before You Panic: Stay Calm, Document Everything
Your gut screams to fight. Or run.
But hold up. Don’t do anything crazy.
Be the detective here.
Write it down. Every detail.
- When? Date and time.
- What exactly was said or done?
- Who was there?
- Save texts, emails, voice notes.
Use your phone, a notebook, email yourself if you must.
This record could save your job. Or your case later on.
Can You Talk to HR? Maybe. Maybe Not.
HR can be a friend. Or a foe.
If HR is decent, talk. Show them facts. Be cool. Ask for confidentiality.
But if HR’s tight with your boss?
Or they’ve ignored problems before?
Don’t waste your breath there.
Go higher. Or outside the company.
The Internal Route: Union Reps and Company Hotlines
Got a union? Good. Call them fast.
Union reps know their stuff. They fight for you.
No union? Maybe your company has a hotline.
Anonymous. You can report without fear.
But be careful. Some “anonymous” tips aren’t really.
Test the waters. Use burner emails or phones if you need to.
The Outside World: Real Help Exist
Tried HR? Tried union? Nothing worked?
Where now? Here’s the real help:
Labour Department or Labour Centres (South Africa specific)
South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour is your friend here.
They handle threats, harassment, unpaid wages, unfair treatment.
Find your nearest Labour Centre.
They’ll help you file complaints, even mediate.
And yes, it’s free.
Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA)
CCMA is like the workplace court.
Not just for pay disputes. For threats, abuse, and harassment too.
They listen. They mediate. They decide.
You don’t need a lawyer. Just your story and proof.
Cell phone number: 0861 16 16 16
Website: ccma.org.za
Legal Aid South Africa
No cash for lawyers? No problem.
Legal Aid SA helps folks who can’t afford private lawyers.
They explain your rights, prepare papers, even represent you.
Website: legal-aid.co.za
Cell phone number: 0800 110 110
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Advocacy Groups
Some NGOs have your back too.
They give advice, counseling, sometimes even shout your story to the world.
Groups like:
- Workers’ World Media Productions
- Sonke Gender Justice (for gender threats)
- Black Sash
They care. They know the ropes.
Police (When It’s Serious)
Threat turns physical? You feel unsafe now?
Call the cops. Don’t wait.
Threats with violence, stalking, assault? Criminal stuff.
You can press charges. Your safety is priority.
Protecting Yourself While You Plan Next Steps
You might need this job. Bills don’t pay themselves.
So how to survive until you figure it out?
- Don’t be alone with the threatening person
- Keep conversations in writing when possible
- Tell trusted coworkers what’s going on
- Back up important work documents at home
- Start looking for new jobs quietly
- Lean on friends, family, therapists
Remember: this isn’t your fault. You didn’t cause this.
When Quitting Becomes the Only Way Out
Sometimes, no fix.
Threats keep coming. You dread work. You’re drained.
Leaving might be best. It’s not quitting. It’s self-care.
Write a simple, professional resignation letter. No drama.
Don’t burn bridges. You might need references later.
And report everything. Especially if they forced you out.
What Happens After You Report?
Reporting isn’t magic.
Things might get messy first.
But you reclaim your power the moment you speak up.
You might face:
- Investigations
- Hearings
- Mediations
- Maybe settlements
Get support. A lawyer, a union rep, a friend. Don’t be alone.
Healing Takes Time—So Give It
Work threats mess with your head.
You might doubt yourself. Second guess every move. That’s normal.
Talk to someone. Get therapy if you can.
Forgive yourself for not speaking earlier.
You did what you could. Now do what you need.
Final Words: You Deserve a Safe Workplace
No paycheck worth your safety.
No job worth your peace of mind.
If your employer threatens you:
You are not powerless.
You are not imagining things.
You are not alone.
There is help. There are places to go. People who listen. Tools you can use.
So breathe.
Take the first step.
Take back your peace.
