Once again, the nation finds itself in mourning.
Unfortunately, US workplace-violence incidences continue to rise and grab front-page news headlines. It's no surprise that surveys indicate a growing number of workers expressing concern over safety concerns.
A New York Times Pulitzer-prize winning journalist, Nicholas D. Kristof, once said something very telling: "Random violence is incredibly contagious."
And, in response to this disturbing trend, more and more employers are asking: Does my business know how to respond in a crisis?
After the horrific Fort Hood, Texas, shooting massacre, I listened to an NPR reporter describe how the base’s Army-trained personnel immediately and heroically responded to the horrific incident.
While victim counts were staggering, the reporter added that the numbers of fatalities and wounded might have been even higher were it not for that the shooter was targeting highly trained military personnel.
After hearing that analysis, I thought to myself: Will American civilian workers one day be required to complete six weeks of military-style basic training in order to adequately protect themselves from potential acts of violence in the workplace?
For some time now, and because of this trend, human resource professionals have been championing workplace violence-awareness and protection/prevention strategies.
According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), businesses can increase security measures by:
- providing additional training to supervisors and employees in how to handle a potentially violent situation;
- adding day and night security;
- installing surveillance cameras in public locations; and
- providing counseling services to employees who are victims of domestic violence.
SHRM furthermore recommends that employers consider the following business strategies:
- Enlighten and educate senior management and all levels of supervisors about responsibilities and liabilities for workplace violence. Make sure they understand their roles.
- Provide education and training. An abundance of inexpensive or free resources is available. (For starters, see related reading and resources below.)
- Assess your current state of readiness to manage outbreaks or incidences of violence. Conduct an audit of the major areas of focus by identifying gaps and preparing actions plans with accountability.
The unfortunate reality is that a troubled few can inflict great harm and pose serious dangers to others in the workplace.
Meanwhile, as someone once said, we all will need to "Let the fear of danger be a spur to prevent it…"
Related reading and resources:
Checklist: Workplace Violence Awareness and Readiness
Why a Business Needs a Crisis Management Plan
Developing a Crisis Management Plan
Responding to a Crisis or Disaster
Workplace Violence Warning Signs
Workplace Bullies