While mass shootings grab headlines, daily incidents of workplace violence (WPV) are often underpublicized, underreported, and largely go unnoticed by the general public. But given the frequency, variety, and collective impact of these events—from employee safety to organizational liability—the ongoing threat of WPV deserves more attention.
Of course, while some industries are more vulnerable than others, businesses across the board would be wise to increase their awareness of the threat landscape, assess their own level of risk, and upgrade their approach to preparedness. Here’s how.
1. Stay Informed
Very simply, greater awareness is key to preparing for and mitigating workplace violence. But being “in the know” and boosting your organization’s ability to respond to new and critical information is multi-faceted and ongoing.
Certainly, we recommend subscribing to business publications that might update you on WPV incidents overlooked by the media – but preparedness is less about what has happened than what might. Are you also tracking community news and how it may be affecting your staff? Are you aware of significant internal or external relationships that could influence employee conduct? Does your organization have a complete understanding of what qualifies as workplace violence? And is your management team tracking behavioral indicators that could signal WPV?
2. Get Coverage
Another reason why increased awareness is important? It encourages action. According to BusinessInsurance.com, many insurers are seeing companies inquire about broadening their coverage due to “board-level interest.”
And while there are several ways businesses can protect themselves legally—Workers Comp and general liability policies among them—what can and can’t be covered by these plans, who might be eligible to file claims, and the scope of company responsibility is evolving. Many states are redefining protections with new laws, most notably in California where Senate Bill (SB) 553 now requires WPV preparedness and prevention protocols for employers across the state. The first of its kind, it’s a ruling that’s likely to be implemented by other state governments.
3. Create a Plan
Rulings like the one in California offer all the more reason to perform a risk assessment for your organization, and to invest in greater preparedness planning. Being proactive about improved security and advanced WPV training will not only help protect the well-being of your staff and safeguard your business from potential liability, but it’ll place your organization out in front of the changes that lie ahead.
With expertise including Run-Hide-Fight, active shooter preparedness and response, situational awareness, de-escalation techniques, and more, The Power of Preparedness provides critical guidance that can save lives. Contact us to learn more.