Is Your Organization at Risk? Security Consulting Solutions for Workplace Violence Prevention

Workplace violence is a serious concern for organizations across all industries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines workplace violence as “violent acts, including physical assaults and threats of assault, directed toward persons at work or on duty.”  With the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting 392 workplace homicides in 2020, it’s clear that addressing this issue is crucial for employee safety and organizational well-being.

Understanding the Scope of Workplace Violence for Businesses

Workplace violence encompasses a range of behaviors, from verbal threats to physical assaults. It can occur between employees, or involve external parties such as customers or intruders. The impact on organizations is significant, affecting employee morale, productivity, and financial stability. The National Safety Council estimates that workplace violence costs employers billions annually in lost productivity, legal expenses, and property damage.

The Role of Security Consulting Services to Prevent and Mitigate Workplace Violence

Security consulting services play a vital role in mitigating the risk of workplace violence.  Security experts bring specialized knowledge in threat assessment, prevention strategies, and security implementation.  By engaging third-party security consultants, organizations can proactively address potential risks and create safer work environments for their companies.

Comprehensive Risk Assessments in the Context of Workplace Violence Prevention

One of the primary functions of security consulting services is conducting thorough risk assessments. This process involves:

• Identifying potential threats specific to the organization.
• Analyzing vulnerabilities in current security measures.
• Recommending tailored solutions to address identified risks.

Risk assessments form the foundation for effective workplace violence prevention programs.  They help organizations understand their unique risk profile and allocate resources efficiently.

Developing Workplace Violence Prevention Programs

Security consultants assist in creating comprehensive prevention programs that include:

• Establishing clear policies and procedures.
• Implementing reporting mechanisms for potential threats
• Designing employee training programs.

These programs are crucial for fostering a culture of safety and awareness. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) emphasizes the importance of written workplace violence prevention programs, especially in high-risk industries like healthcare. 

Additionally, as the OSHA article explains, workplace violence prevention programs are strengthened when organizations embrace High Reliability Organization (HRO) principles, and subsequently apply these principles as a lens through which their security programs are developed and implemented.

Implementing Physical Security Measures to Prevent and Mitigate Workplace Violence

Based on risk assessments, security consultants may recommend various physical security enhancements:

• Access control systems to monitor and restrict entry.
• Surveillance technologies for deterrence and evidence collection.
• Environmental design modifications to improve safety.

The Role of Security Consultants in Workplace Violence Prevention Training and Education

A critical component of workplace violence prevention is employee training. Security consultants develop and deliver programs that focus on:

• Recognizing warning signs of potential violence.
• De-escalation techniques for diffusing tense situations.
• Emergency response procedures.

These training programs empower employees to play an active role in maintaining a safe work environment. As noted by NAVEX, a comprehensive approach to workplace violence prevention must include both compliance measures and proactive prevention strategies.

Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation of the Workplace Violence Prevention Program

Security consulting services don’t end with initial assessments and implementations. They provide ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the effectiveness of prevention strategies. This includes:

• Collecting and analyzing data on incidents and near-misses.
• Continuously improving strategies based on new information.
• Adapting to evolving threats and changing organizational needs.

Compliance with Regulations and Standards

Security consultants can also help organizations stay abreast of relevant regulations and industry standards.  In Pennsylvania, recent legislative efforts aim to address workplace violence prevention in healthcare settings.  For example, House Bill 2247, introduced on April 29, 2024, requires health facilities to establish violence prevention committees to implement and oversee workplace violence prevention programs. 

Similarly, Pennsylvania Senate Bill 1291, introduced on July 12, 2024, mandates the creation of violence prevention committees in health facilities and outlines their duties.  These bills, if passed, would require healthcare employers to conduct annual risk assessments, develop written prevention plans, provide employee training, and report incidents to Pennsylvania’s Department of Labor and Industry.  Third-party security consultants can help ensure that organizations are prepared to meet these potential requirements while implementing best practices for violence prevention.

The Long-Term Benefits of Working with Security Consultants on a Workplace Violence Prevention Program

Investing in security consulting services yields long-term benefits for organizations. Beyond the immediate improvement in safety, these services contribute to:

• Enhanced employee morale and productivity.
• Reduced legal and insurance costs.
• Improved organizational reputation.

Additionally, research from Florida International University (FIU) indicates that the costs of workplace violence extend far beyond immediate medical and legal expenses, affecting employee turnover, productivity, and overall organizational performance.

Committing to Employee Safety and Resilience Through Security Consulting Services

Workplace violence is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach.  Security consulting services offer the expertise and resources necessary to develop comprehensive prevention strategies.  By conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing tailored security measures, and providing ongoing support, these services play a crucial role in creating safer work environments.

Organizations that prioritize workplace violence prevention through professional security consulting demonstrate a commitment to employee safety and organizational resilience.  This proactive approach to workplace violence prevention and mitigation is not just a best practice – it is a necessity for long-term business success and employee well-being.

For organizations seeking to enhance their workplace violence prevention efforts, Convoy Group offers a comprehensive suite of security consulting services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.  With a Pittsburgh-based team of experienced global security professionals from U.S. special operations, intelligence community, law enforcement, and corporate security backgrounds, we bring a wealth of expertise to the table.  Our services include threat and security vulnerability assessments, personnel recovery strategies, and the development of custom corporate security programs and workplace violence prevention programs.  By partnering with Convoy Group, organizations can leverage over 65 years of combined security and intelligence expertise to create a safer, more secure work environment for their employees, staff, and visitors.