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Reduce risk of workplace violence

March 18, 2019 By    
Best safety practices include using security cameras and badge entry systems. Photo: iStock.com/Casper1774Studio

Best safety practices include using security cameras and badge entry systems. Photo: iStock.com/YinYang

Violence in workplaces across the country is a growing problem, with shootings reported at manufacturing plants, shopping centers, schools, nightclubs, churches and other places.

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has taken a new step to help curb the risk of workplace incidents involving active shooters and armed assailants. ASSP published a technical report – registered with the American National Standards Institute – that can help guide companies to safer environments and a coordinated response should a hostile event occur.

The consensus-based document, “How to Develop and Implement an Active Shooter/Armed Assailant Plan,” contains recommendations from safety experts on how a business in any industry can better protect itself in advance of such an incident.

According to the technical report, best safety practices include developing a relationship with local police officers and firefighters, asking for assistance when necessary. Invite first responders for facility tours so they learn the building’s layout and can offer tips on preventing intruders and improving emergency response. Security cameras and badge entry systems also can help protect a facility and account for all employees during an emergency.

Company leaders should know that acts of violence at their facilities would most likely be carried out by a disgruntled or terminated employee, a spouse of an employee or a dissatisfied customer. Focusing on these possibilities helps safety managers better prepare their organizations.

Visit the ASSP website at assp.org to download an infographic, view videos and learn more about the ASSP technical report.

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