Weapons in the Workplace
Although we all like to think that we take the appropriate safety measures to ensure
security in the workplace, despite our best efforts, violent incidents involving weapons may still occur. No matter how good the security system is at your place of employment, everyone in the workplace must still take some responsibility for his own personal safety.
Sometimes, weapon detection strategies aren't enough because objects that are not usually thought of as weapons can be used as weapons. These include items that could be thrown (staplers, coffee cups, tools), used to stab (pens, pencils, cutlery, glass, screwdrivers), or worn (ties, scarves, boots, jewelry).
Personal Prevention Strategies
To prepare for the possibility of being in a situation involving a weapon, keep the following personal prevention strategies in mind:
Use strategic visualization. Mentally rehearse the way you would respond to a violent incident. Visualize the person involved, the weapon used, and possible escape routes.
Position yourself for safety. Arrange your office desk near a door or opening so you will not be trapped inside. Do not turn your back on anyone who is agitated or angry. Enter and exit the facility with a coworker or security guard.
Trust your instincts. Don't second guess your internal warning signals.
Always be considerate and respectful. Previous interactions with an individual play a critical role in the outcome of an incident involving a weapon. If you consistently interact with others in a considerate and respectful manner, you are less likely to become a target of violence.
If Confronted by Someone With a Weapon
If you find yourself trapped in a situation with another individual who has a weapon, keep these key points in mind until professional assistance arrives.
Remember the individual is unsure. Try to stay calm. The person who is confronting you may be undecided about whether or not to use the weapon. If he had decided, he probably would have already attacked.
Understand that the individual is often afraid, maybe as much as you are. This could be the reason he has the weapon in the first place.
Avoid rushing or trying to disarm the person. This is a point that even trained law enforcement follow because it increases danger.
Negotiate with the individual. The longer you can keep the conversation going, the less likely the individual will be to use the weapon against you. If you are held hostage, this will also improve your chance of survival.
Ask to take three steps back. Try to get the individual to agree to let you back up three steps. This will reduce anxiety as well as the accuracy of the weapon, should the individual try to use it against you.
Following these tips will help increase your confidence and ability to respond safely and consistently to a variety of challenging situations.
Weapons in the Workplace
By: Erin Treder
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