Responding to Workplace Violence
Workplace violence is an increasingly serious problem in today's society. This chapter will provide an overview of what constitutes workplace violence, the effects it can have on an organization, and potential solutions to help prevent it.
Staying Calm in a Crisis Workplace Violence
Fortunately, science has shown that we can impact our body's stress response using our breath. Using breathing exercises has been shown to help people whose occupations are in regular high-stress environments, as well as people who have anxiety and panic disorders. One method of tactical breathing is called the 4 - 7 - 9 method. You breathe in through the nose for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, and then breathe out through the mouth for 9 seconds. So, when you feel stressed, think 4, 7, 9.
Active Shooter Response Steps are a set of procedures that can help individuals prepare for and respond to an active shooter situation. These steps are designed to provide guidance on how to respond when an active shooter is in your vicinity, and to help increase the chances of survival.
If you cannot run or hide, OR if the shooter makes it into your hiding location, your best option in this worst-case scenario is to fight. Your best chance of survival is to incapacitate and disarm the shooter.
If there are no clear paths to an exit, your next best strategy is to hide. The safest place is inside any room or closet that can be locked. Lock and barricade the door, turn the lights off, and silence your phone. Grab something that can be used as a weapon if the shooter makes it into your hiding place.
If there is an active shooter in your workplace, first, look for a clear exit. If you can see one, run. Call 911 once you are safe. Tell anyone you see that there's a shooter, but don't let them slow you down. If they don't want to come with you, keep moving.
Prioritize Your Own Safety
When deciding whether to de-escalate a potentially violent scenario, it is always appropriate to prioritize your own safety. If you are afraid to intervene and have not been trained to do so safely, it is a good idea to remove yourself from the situation and seek help instead of trying to solve the problem on your own.
Bystander Intervention and De-Escalation
These de-escalation techniques can help to prevent workplace violence. Verbal and non-verbal strategies to de-escalate an agitated person:
Here are some myths to look out for:
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Use a calm and monotonous voice.
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Use a nonthreatening stance and gestures.
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Talk gently to the person about their problems.
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Listen without judgment.
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Affirm their feelings without supporting their actions.
Appropriately Respond to Workplace Violence With Training
Workplace violence can be a very serious and dangerous issue, so it is essential that all employees are trained on how to appropriately respond to it. Training should include instruction on recognizing the signs of potential violence, learning the appropriate methods to de-escalate potentially volatile situations, and understanding the importance of reporting any incidents or threats of violence to management and human resources.
Helping over 8,000 organizations create a safer, more productive workplace
EasyLlama’s online training course helps employees navigate best practices for preventing workplace violence. This course provides an in-depth examination for how to help prevent workplace violence through reporting, de-escalation methods, and more. The course covers:
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