Homicide is the leading cause of fatal occupational injuries for women and accounts for 39% of all fatal injuries for women at work. Using medical examiner and coroner reports, this study analyzed female workplace homicides in three counties within metropolitan Chicago from 1984 to 1990. These workplace homicides were compared to non-workplace homicides of women. There were 1,354 female homicides; of the 17 workplace homicides, all occurred in Cook County. The annual rate of female occupational homicides was higher (1.5/10(5)) for Cook County, while for the metropolitan Chicago area (Cook, DuPage, and Lake counties) it was 1.19/10(5). Black women experienced a higher workplace homicide rate (2.3/10(5)) than white women (1.2/10(5)). Most of these occupational homicides occurred in retail trade, predominately in eating and drinking establishments; robbery was a frequent occurrence, and the women often worked alone. Only three medical examiner reports cited a known assailant. The leading cause of death was from gunshot wounds. Workplace homicides were similar to non-workplace homicides in relation to age, race, and cause of death. Identified risk factors associated with workplace homicides, as well as non-fatal assaults, should be used to develop effective preventive measures. A national standard for general workplace security also is needed.