This study examined the role of perceived control in ameliorating the negative outcomes associated with the experience of violence at work, using two large samples comprised of hospital ('N' = 187) and group home staff ('N' = 195). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of the measure of perceived control developed for the study converged in suggesting a three-factor structure consisting of understanding, prediction and influence. Results of a series of moderated regression analyses suggested that perceived control did not moderate the relationships between violence and fear, or between fear and emotional well-being, psychosomatic health or neglect. However, perceived control did have a direct effect on emotional well-being and indirect effects on psychosomatic health and neglect. In addition, training that targets workplace violence was found to enhance employees' perceptions of control. The implications of these findings for practice and research are discussed.