Make Our Workplace Safe Again: Cultivating a Culture of Care

Written by: Monte Mills

Remember that time you accidentally hit 'reply all' on an email that was not intended for the entire company? We all cringe at those moments. However, workplace threats can be far more serious than a rogue email. You've probably heard the phrase 'Make America Great Again.' As HR professionals, our mission is to Make Our Workplace Safe Again – and that's no laughing matter.

Workplace safety has become a critical concern in today's increasingly complex world. The unfortunate reality is that workplace violence is more common than many people realize. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 392 workplace homicides in the United States in 2020 alone. That's a sobering statistic, and it highlights the importance of proactively addressing the top threats that HR professionals must address to ensure a safe and secure workplace for all employees. 

For HR professionals, ensuring a safe and secure workplace is paramount. It goes beyond simply complying with regulations; it's about creating a culture of care and protecting the well-being of employees. So, let's dive into the top threats facing modern workplaces and how HR professionals can navigate this challenging landscape.

1. Addressing Domestic Issues in the Workplace:

We all know that work and home life can intertwine. But sometimes, that intertwining can lead to serious issues. 43% of female deaths in the workplace were fatal assaults by a relative or domestic partner. Domestic violence can significantly impact an employee's work performance, mental health, and even physical safety. As HR professionals, it's crucial to recognize the signs of domestic violence and offer appropriate support. A few ways to offer support might include creating a confidential employee assistance program, providing information on local resources, and implementing policies that address workplace safety in domestic violence cases. Remember, a compassionate and supportive environment can make a difference for employees experiencing these challenges.

2. Workplace Violence Prevention:

Let's be honest. No one wants to think about the possibility of workplace violence but ignoring it won't make it go away. Active shooter drills and threat assessment programs are no longer optional but essential. HR professionals must play a key role in developing and implementing these programs, ensuring all employees know the protocols and how to respond in an emergency.

HR should be involved in Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) training. BTAM consists of assessing, mitigating, and managing individuals who may pose a threat to themselves or others in the workplace. This proactive approach can help prevent workplace violence before it occurs.

3. Escalating Insider Threats:

Remember that employee who always showed up late and grumbled about their salary? Well, sometimes those grumbles can escalate into something more serious. Insider threats, such as data breaches, sabotage, and even violence, are on the rise. Economic pressures, geopolitical tensions, and personal grievances can fuel these threats. HR professionals must be vigilant in monitoring employee behavior, conducting background checks (when appropriate), and fostering a culture of open communication where employees feel comfortable raising concerns.

4. Convergence of Cybersecurity and Physical Security:

In today's interconnected world, the lines between cybersecurity and physical security are blurring. Cyberattacks can have significant physical consequences, from disrupting critical infrastructure to compromising sensitive data. HR professionals must understand this convergence and work closely with IT and security teams to develop a comprehensive risk management strategy.

5. Shift to Risk Management:

Gone are the days of simply checking boxes on a safety checklist. Today, a proactive and data-driven approach to risk management is crucial and involves conducting regular risk assessments, identifying potential threats, and developing mitigation strategies. HR professionals can play a vital role in this process by collecting and analyzing employee feedback, conducting workplace surveys, and identifying emerging safety concerns.

6. Enhanced Executive Protection:

In today's hyper-connected world, high-profile individuals within organizations face increased security risks. From cyberstalking to physical threats, the need for enhanced executive protection is more critical than ever. HR professionals can play a valuable role in developing and implementing security protocols for company executives, including travel security assessments, threat assessments, and close protection measures.

7. Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace:

Believe it or not, emotional intelligence(EQ) plays a crucial role in workplace safety. By fostering a culture of empathy, compassion, and open communication, HR professionals can create a more positive and supportive work environment. This environment can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate, improve employee morale, and enhance workplace safety.

In conclusion, ensuring workplace safety is an ongoing challenge. By being informed about the latest threats, implementing proactive measures, and fostering a culture of care, HR professionals can play a pivotal role in creating a safer and more secure work environment for everyone. If you have questions about any of these topics or other issues you may be experiencing in your workplace, please don't hesitate to contact SafeHaven Security Group. Your first consultation is free, and we want to help make your workplace safe again!