Protecting your employees is one of the most important factors of workforce management. You need to create a secure work environment to ensure that staff members aren't exposed to unnecessary risks.
The HR department has to play an active role in preventing workplace violence, and there are a few universally accepted practices for achieving this end. Below are some of the most frequently used strategies that have helped companies avoid dangerous situations in the office.
Start researching
You can't stop a problem if you haven't properly identified it, which is why the Journal Star recommends conducting a risk assessment. This includes identifying a behavioral problems that could lead to issues down the road. The objective is to study the strength of your current safety plans and also uncover any weaknesses that could lead to issues down the road.
The easiest way to get started is to review your security system and ask yourself the following questions:
- Has the company upgraded its technology in the last three years?
- Do the cameras have any blind spots?
- How many employees have access codes?
- Are passwords and procedures updated every time someone resigns?
The answers can give you direction on what you'll need to improve in terms of security. The last one is particularly important, as you don't want anyone who isn't currently on your staff to have access to your office.
Improve hiring
Psychology Today points out that improving vetting and hiring procedures can reduce workplace violence. The news source explains that past actions can give you a good idea as to how a candidate will behave in the future.
Background checks should be standard practice. Employers need to obtain written permission from applicants before conducting background checks. Carefully review all of the information you can find on a prospective employee before offering him or her the job.
Check references
It's also important for companies to check references during the hiring process. While background checks can provide some information, not every incident is documented and there are many cases in which the police aren't involved.
In fact, someone may just have very poor workplace behavior. For instance, managers can be abusive and employees can be prone to tantrums. You need to check with former employers and HR departments to gain insight on their overall performance in their past jobs.
Train
You should conduct regular training to ensure that the entire staff is prepared to identify unusual behavior in the workplace and deal with dangerous situations. A well-defined strategy and plan can ensure that employees don't put themselves in harm's way. Also, language regarding discipline, or possible firing should be considered in the company handbook.
Workplace violence is a serious problem that HR departments need to continually work to eradicate. The more employers study the issue, the more prepared they'll be should the unthinkable every occur at their facilities.