Proactive Security Measures for a Safer Work Environment
It might not be top of mind when thinking about the workplace, but the risk of workplace violence is very real and serious.
So, how can businesses stop these problems before they get out of hand?
The answer is having well-trained and properly equipped security guards as a prominent part of your office safety plan.
Understanding Workplace Violence
In Canada, workplace violence is defined in different ways by different laws.
For example:
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In Ontario, violence is defined as using or threatening to use physical force in a way that could cause injury.
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Under the Canada Labour Code, violence and harassment include any behaviour that could reasonably cause harm to an employee's mental or physical health.
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In Alberta, violence means any action that someone threatens, tries to do, or actually does that can cause physical or mental harm to another person.
In essence, workplace violence includes everything from rude remarks (written or verbal) to severe physical attacks, as well as acts of a sexual nature.
Workplace violence can have significant consequences, causing emotional and physical harm to employees. It also costs businesses money through things like lower productivity.
As a business, you're also legally liable to keep your employees safe.
The Importance of Security Guards in Preventing Workplace Violence
Security guards play a central role in workplace violence prevention. Their presence alone can deter potential attackers.
Guards are trained to watch for and spot suspicious behaviour. This helps in early intervention. They also assess risks and help develop plans to prevent violence.
Conflict de-escalation training is included in their training. This training teaches them how to calm tense situations and prevent them from becoming violent.
Security guards are responsible for controlling who enters the building. This can prevent potentially dangerous people from coming inside.
In the event of an incident, security guards are trained to respond quickly, provide first aid, and work with emergency services.
Guards will also secure the area after an incident, preserving evidence and supporting staff.
Security Guards and Conflict
When tensions rise, a skilled security guard can help de-escalate the situation. They are trained in how to calm people down. This means they know how to communicate with angry individuals, listen to their concerns, and seek peaceful resolutions before situations escalate.
Consider a scenario in which a disgruntled ex-employee tries to come inside. A security guard trained to calm people down would not use force immediately.
Instead, they will calmly but firmly explain why the person can't come in, listen to why they are upset, and try to solve the problem peacefully. Doing this can often stop anger from turning into violence.
Our conflict de-escalation course teaches these crucial skills, focusing on how to handle conflict without fighting.
Security and Company Leaders
Security guards don't work alone. They must work closely with your HR department and company leaders.
When security identifies a potential problem, it must be able to inform decision-makers quickly and trust that its reports will be acted upon.
Only by working together can workplace violence be prevented effectively.
Key Prevention Measures
In addition to security guards, other measures can help prevent workplace violence.
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Access control systems, like key cards and biometric scanners, help keep unauthorized people out.
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Surveillance technology, like CCTV cameras, can discourage violence and help in investigations.
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Alarm systems, including panic buttons and silent alarms, enable employees to call for help quickly.
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Visitor management procedures, like visitor sign-ins and ID checks, help track who is on the premises.
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Zero-tolerance policies stating that violence is not allowed send a strong message.
Supporting Security's Work
While skilled personnel are essential, they also need the right tools to stop workplace violence effectively.
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Metal detectors help prevent weapons from entering the premises.
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Good radio accessories and systems let security quickly tell others about problems and work together to fix them.
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Quality handcuffs will help detain individuals when necessary, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
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Also, invest in well-made batons. Guards will use these for controlling situations. However, they'll need proper training in how to use batons effectively.
Want to know more about getting the right tools for your security team?
Speak to our team about a corporate account!
This way, we can help you find the best gear and apparel for your security team and possibly offer a bulk purchase discount.
Work safely out there!