A Comprehensive Approach to Preventing and Managing Violence in the Workplace
As many people are aware, workplace violence is one of the most significant threats many companies will ever face. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, homicide is the third leading cause of death in the workplace with 639 homicides occurring in 2001 (excluding the 9/11 attacks). Furthermore, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) estimates an additional one million workers each year are victims of non-fatal workplace assaults.
High-profile workplace shootings reaffirm the immediacy of this threat, and have increased fear among employees and their families. Furthermore, the tremendous impact of these shootings — on the workplace, the surrounding community, and the company overall — have made it necessary for company officials to consider every possible step they can take to prevent incidents of targeted violence.
Contrary to popular opinion, most incidents of workplace violence can be mitigated or even completely prevented with proper planning and recognition of the warning signs. Using a multi-phase process, Crisis Management Associates (CMA) can assist your staff in developing and implementing a comprehensive Workplace Violence Prevention and Response program. This program will enable your company to prevent or minimize potentially violent incidents, respond effectively if they do occur, and recover from the incident and return to normal operations.
► Assessing Workplace Risks and Vulnerabilities
A comprehensive risk assessment and vulnerability analysis conducted by CMA experts will identify your exposure to workplace violence. We will look at all aspects of your operations and your facilities to ensure the development of appropriate risk reduction strategies.
► Evaluating Workplace Violence Prevention and Response Plans
Our staff members are well versed in emergency planning. Our multi-disciplinary team will conduct a review of your existing plans to determine whether your workplace has appropriate plans in place to deal with potentially violent incidents.
► Planning for Emergencies
CMA staff will assist your company in developing or enhancing comprehensive workplace violence prevention and response plans. Plans can be customized to meet the needs of each specific facility and operation. Furthermore, because staff performance is critical to the success of emergency response, the customization of these plans includes working through roles and responsibilities of management and employees before an incident occurs.
► Training
Ongoing training is an essential part of ensuring your staff is prepared to manage potential violence, or any other emergency that could affect the work setting. From spotting the warning signs of potential violence, to evaluating threatening communications, or responding to an actual incident, CMA can provide on-site training to prepare your staff. This training will prepare them to implement proactive intervention strategies to mitigate risk and deal efficiently and effectively with any emergency.
► Exercises / Drills
Presenting challenges from real world events, our team will develop and present tabletop drills and full-scale exercises to enhance your staff’s preparedness for emergencies. Exercises are an essential part of preparing your staff and identify issues that require additional focus.
► Business Continuity Planning
Reducing the consequences of an emergency and returning your operations to normal will depend on your level of planning. Ensuring that you have business continuity plans in place that cover everything from protecting vital infrastructure through relocation to temporary facilities is a critical part of the planning process. Our associates will help to ensure that you are able to conduct business even in the aftermath of a crisis.
► Emergency Response Team
CMAs Emergency Response Team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to provide emergency assistance. With a highly trained multi-functional team, CMA can assist your organization with the total management of an incident. From arranging for specific crisis response actions to dealing with employee and family issues, we are prepared to aid in the restoration of normalcy to the workplace.
► Crisis Communications Assistance
Your company’s future may depend upon its reputation. The message sent to employees, the public, and other stakeholders by your handling of a crisis may reflect on how you manage your company. Without effective execution of internal and external communications, even a well-managed crisis response may be cast in a negative light. CMA experts can help your organization ensure the most appropriate message is sent to your key audiences.
Prevention planning is a prudent use of your company’s resources, so please do not wait until a catastrophe occurs to find out you may not be prepared. Our staff of professional consultants is ready to help you prepare and prevent, rather than react and regret. Contact Crisis Management Associates today for assistance with preparing your workplace violence prevention and response program, or to learn other ways we can assist you.
What Our Clients Say about Our Workplace Violence Prevention and Response Work
“I think (the training) improved the knowledge and understanding of those less familiar with these types of situations and how they develop over time.” Vice President of Business and Finance
“Informative and fast paced (training)…excellent.” Vice President of Administration
“This program was a valuable first step in educating community members about workplace violence.” Division Director
“I am glad I had an opportunity to be a part of the workshop.” Director of Public Affairs |
