Workplace violence has become a growing concern in the United States, with a disturbing rise in a specific type of incident known as active shooter incidents. These distressing events have not only become more frequent but also increasingly severe. According to the FBI, the number of active shooter incidents has surged by an alarming 96.8% between 2017 and 2021, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Tragically, within the last decade alone, three out of the five deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history have unfolded.

In recent years, this trend has spurred companies to address workplace violence as a significant issue. Statistics from 2019 reveal an average annual rate of 8.0 violent crimes per 1,000 workers aged 16 or older, resulting in around 1.3 million nonfatal violent crimes occurring in workplaces annually.

Although predicting an active shooter event remains impossible, organizations can take proactive measures to prepare for such incidents and minimize risks to their employees. This article underscores key strategies for preventing workplace violence, establishing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), fostering a supportive company culture, and implementing an effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to ensure employee safety. By adopting these approaches, organizations can strive towards creating a secure and safe working environment for all their employees.

Let's explore key strategies for preventing workplace violence and mitigating its risks…

1. Strengthening Hiring Processes:

   • Conduct thorough background checks on job candidates, verifying their history of responsible behavior through reference checks.

   • By screening potential employees carefully, companies can minimize the risks associated with hiring individuals with a propensity for violence or aggression.

2. Proactive Monitoring and Employee Support:

   • Remain vigilant in monitoring employee behavior and promptly address any concerns before they escalate into crises.

   • Implement a workplace culture that values open communication and encourages employees to report potential threats or concerns.

   • Establish Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to provide support and counseling services for employees experiencing personal or work-related issues that may escalate into violence.

   • Collaborate with EAP providers to ensure employees are aware of available resources and train managers to recognize warning signs and take appropriate action.

3. Fostering a Supportive Company Culture:

   • Create a safe and comfortable work environment by implementing zero-tolerance policies for violence and harassment.

   • Provide access to confidential counseling services and mental health resources.

   • Foster a culture of open communication and support to prevent violent incidents before they occur.

4. Developing an Effective Emergency Action Plan (EAP):

   • Design a well-structured crisis response plan, including an active shooter policy, outlining employee roles and responsibilities.

   • Designate leaders responsible for managing crisis situations and provide emergency contact information and evacuation routes.

   • Conduct regular training and drills to ensure employee familiarity with the plan and their ability to respond effectively during emergencies.

   • Establish reliable communication protocols, such as a mass notification system, and designate a point person for emergency communication.

5. Collaborating with Law Enforcement and Crisis Management:

   • Engage with local law enforcement agencies to coordinate emergency response plans and ensure appropriate support for employees during and after incidents.

   • Establish a crisis management team comprising HR, security, and law enforcement representatives.

   • Conduct regular drills and exercises to evaluate the effectiveness of emergency procedures and identify areas for improvement.

Active shooters often choose soft targets and crowded places (ST-CPs) for their attacks. The following industries are commonly targeted for active shooter incidents: commerce/retail, government, education, religious organizations, and health care. It is crucial for businesses in these industries, as well as others, to be aware of their vulnerability and take appropriate measures to enhance security and safety protocols.

Organizations targeted in active shooter incidents face significant ramifications that extend beyond the immediate impact on employees and workplace culture. The aftermath of such incidents involves significant recovery expenses. These include medical and funeral bills for victims, managing workers' compensation claims, providing on-site counseling services, and handling disruptions to business operations.

Neglecting necessary safety measures may result in regulatory penalties imposed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which recognizes active shooter incidents as a recognized hazard.

Additionally, organizations are vulnerable to potential lawsuits arising from such incidents, exemplified by the MGM Resorts International's Mandalay Bay resort settlement, where an $800 million payout was made to victims and their families. Hence, it is crucial for organizations to proactively address these risks and establish comprehensive measures to mitigate the devastating effects of workplace violence incidents.

Here at Grey Owl, we offer invaluable HR consulting, including emergency response plan creation and implementing effective EAPs. Together, we can help build a future where workplace violence becomes a thing of the past, replaced by environments that foster productivity, growth, and above all, safety. Let us assist you in safeguarding your workforce and addressing the challenges of workplace violence. Give us a call today!