How to Prevent and Defuse Division of Risk Management State of Florida Loss Prevention Program

You will be able to:  Identify the causes of workplace violence.  Spot the signs of potential violence.  Follow required security procedures.  Respond effectively to violent acts.  Recognize and respond to terrorist threats.

 The risks of workplace violence.  Factors that contribute to violence.  Symptoms of impending violence.  Security measures to prevent violence.  Proper response to violent incidents.  Proper response to terrorist threats.

 Employees.  Former employees.  Customers.  Other outsiders.  Criminals.  Terrorists.

 Victims.  Witnesses.  Co-workers.  Customers and others.

 1/6 of violent crimes occur in the workplace.  Violence is the second leading cause of workplace deaths.  18,000 are assaulted at work each week.  Violence costs industry millions a year.  Some employees face higher risks.

 Layoff.  Firing.  Bad behavior warning.  Poor performance review.  Conflict with co-worker.

 Domestic violence.  Disputes with ex-partners.  Alcohol or drug abuse.  Emotional problems.  Financial difficulties.

 Customer interactions.  Robberies, muggings, other crimes.  Random acts of violence.

 Questions thus far on the background of workplace violence?

Of potential for violence:  Threatening to get even.  Blaming others.  Talking about violence or weapons.  Holding grudges.

Of immediate threat:  Threatening words or moves.  Raising voice level.  Abusive language.

What to do:  Remain calm.  Show respect.  Focus on problem.  Alert co-workers.  Report the incident.

Do not:  Argue or raise your voice.  Mimic an angry person’s behavior.

 Cameras, silent alarms.  Locks, coded entry.  Lighting.  Reporting procedures.  Conflict resolution training.  Counseling.

 Report strangers.  Escort visitors.  Wear ID.  Lock valuables.  Report missing items or signs of break-in.  Use danger signal.

 Let people know you will be working late.  Avoid being alone in the office.  Stay near phones.  Lock office doors.

 Let security know when you leave.  Walk out with someone.  Check car before getting in.  Sit near driver on public transportation.

 Keep vehicle doors locked.  Walk in busy, well-lit areas.  Walk purposefully.  Make eye contact.  Check your surroundings.

 Go into store if you’re followed.  Carry only the money you need.  Divide valuables on your person.  Carry items close to your body.  Check your vehicle before entering.

 Prevent violent employees from entering workforce.  Conduct checks for a legitimate business interest.  Use the job application.  Avoid negligent hiring claims.

 Puts employee on notice, reducing likelihood of violence.  Object is to notify, punish appropriately, and reform employee.  Steps usually include: ▪ Informal/oral notice. ▪ Written notice. ▪ Suspension. ▪ Termination.

Effective procedures resolve conflict:  Verbal discussions with supervisor.  Written explanation from supervisor.  Written decision from personnel department.  Appeals.

 Choose an office near an exit.  Minimize furniture and other objects in the room.  Request security personnel.  Obtain a restraining order, if necessary, after a termination.

 Don’t resist a robbery.  Try to fight off physical assault.  Report the incident.  Don’t clean up until you’ve been examined.  Deal with your reaction.

 Questions thus far on action against violence?

 Likely strikes.  Potential targets.

 Company measures: ▪ Firewall. ▪ Virus protection.  Employee practices: ▪ Never install unlicensed software. ▪ Delete suspicious . ▪ Never reveal passwords. ▪ Avoid illegal websites.

 Chemical agents  Biological agents  Radioactive weapons  Nuclear strikes

 Suspicious letters: ▪ Don’t open. ▪ Place in plastic container. ▪ Isolate it from everyone. ▪ Report it.  Unexpected packages: ▪ Report unattended objects. ▪ Look for bad or missing addresses, oily stains, lopsided shapes.

 Turn off ventilation units.  Leave the area.  Close off area.  Call 911.  Notify your manager/security.  Make list of affected people.

 Know evacuation signal.  Listen for instructions.  Shut down equipment.  Close doors and windows.  Follow exit route.  Go to assembly area.

 Locate emergency kit.  Turn off HVAC equipment.  Go to sheltering room.  Shut windows and doors.  Seal windows, doors, and vents.  Listen to the radio.

 Signs of distress: ▪ Withdrawing from peers. ▪ Calling in sick. ▪ Overworking. ▪ Difficulty concentrating.  Ways of coping ▪ Talk about it. ▪ Spend time with loved ones. ▪ Turn TV coverage off. ▪ Seek professional help.

 Workplace violence can take many forms and has numerous causes.  Keep alert to signs of potential violence and take immediate action when you recognize them.  Make sure to follow security procedures and encourage employees to do likewise.

For more information on this subject, please contact: Division of Risk Management State of Florida Loss Prevention Program (850)