As recent incidents have shown in Illinois, Maryland, and California, workplace violence is an unfortunate reality that seems to rise in today’s business world. According to SHRM, 1 in 7 American workers do not feel safe in the workplace. However, being aware of workplace violence and taking the necessary steps to prevent workplace violence are two different things.

What is the solution to ensure the safety of employees, customers, and visitors from workplace violence? The answer is knowing when to turn to the professionals and hire additional security personnel to step in and adequately handle potentially violent situations.

Be Prepared, but Be Realistic

“If you manage or are responsible for a manufacturing plant, you will be aware that there are several safety and security concerns that need to be taken into careful consideration,” said Tom Still, Director of Operations for SACS Consulting and Investigative Services. “One of the main security concerns regarding major manufacturing facilities is that nobody who does not have authorized access enters the property.”

When a visitor or employee shows signs of aggression, workers need to how to handle the situation. Employees, especially those in HR, need to be trained on:

• Identifying the warning signs that aggression is leading toward violence
• How to properly confront an aggressive individual
• Techniques to de-escalate the potential for violence

It’s essential to understand the reasons behind workplace violence (e.g., bullying, termination of employment). Through this understanding, organizations can not only prepare but realistically address a situation before it goes beyond the point of no return.

When to Call for Additional Security

This photo was taken at a 2019 event.

Here are some of the workplace scenarios where additional personnel may be needed to keep everyone (including the aggressor) safe:

• Terminated employee that verbalizes a threat against their supervisor
• Current employee that verbalizes a threat against other employees
• Any notification of a domestic partner dispute
• Any termination that has the potential to have an aggressive response
• Any time you suspend an employee for aggressive behavior
• Complaints from multiple employees reference the potential danger of another employee
• Repetitive aggression against the same employee

As more and more American workplaces fall victim to violence, businesses need to take a step back and assess their state of readiness and willingness to deal with this deadly trend properly. When in doubt, call in professional security personnel who have the know-how and ability to minimize violence in the workplace.

Turn to the Professionals to Keep Your Workplace Safe

Suppose you don’t already have additional security at your business. In that case, you may wish to consider hiring SACS Consulting and Investigative Services as a professional security partner to ensure that the facility is continuously under professional surveillance. Trained security personnel can handle cameras, guard entrances, ensure compliance to COVID-19 protocols, and request that any individuals entering the premises show proof of authorization to make sure that no unauthorized persons can enter the facility.  Although paying for security personnel may initially seem like an expensive measure, it can be a lot more useful than merely installing access systems and cameras. It often means that any potential intruders can be caught and prevented a lot faster.

SACS Consulting & Investigative Services, Inc.’s security services provide companies with immediate security in an emergency or threatening situation of any kind, including employee termination, company break-ins, inability to secure the building, and threats made against management or other personnel. Contact us or call 330-255-1101 to speak with one of our security professionals today.