Next Steps: Addressing Workplace Violence Based on Risk Levels

In the previous blog post, we explored the importance of conducting comprehensive crime risk assessments to identify potential threats across different locations. Now, we’ll dive into how businesses can use those risk insights to implement targeted workplace violence prevention strategies that address the unique needs of each site.

Once businesses have ranked their locations by risk level using crime risk assessments, the next step is to implement targeted safety measures tailored to the unique needs of each site. Below are a few actions companies might take. Please note that these actions are only used as examples and do not reflect specific recommendations to any company or business.

2. Moderate-Risk Locations

• Enhance safety protocols by updating existing policies and providing refresher training for employees on identifying and reporting suspicious behavior.
• Incorporate flexible safety tools like mobile panic buttons or apps that allow staff to alert others in case of an emergency.
• Conduct quarterly or biannual risk audits to ensure that current measures are aligned with changing risk levels and operational needs.

3. Low-Risk Locations

• Focus on preventative measures, such as workplace harassment training and promoting a culture of open communication.
• Ensure employees are aware of safety procedures and reporting channels, even if the risk of violence is lower.
• Periodically review crime data to monitor shifts in risk levels and adjust safety protocols as necessary.

Conclusion

By adopting a location-based risk assessment approach, businesses can take a proactive stance in addressing workplace violence. Tailoring prevention strategies to the unique risk levels of each site allows organizations to be more efficient with their safety programs, ensuring resources are directed where they are needed most. This not only strengthens overall workplace safety but also demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being across all locations.

Tools like CAP Index’s crime risk data provide a critical layer of insight, helping businesses identify which locations demand immediate attention. In addition, regular assessments and data monitoring, simplified by CAP Index’s Survey Lite tool, make collecting and updating this type of information both simple and efficient. By leveraging Survey Lite, organizations can stay on top of shifting risks and adjust safety measures accordingly, ensuring that strategies remain responsive to evolving threats.

Ultimately, by embracing a risk-based approach to violence prevention, businesses can mitigate potential threats, safeguard their employees and customers, and address evolving workplace safety legislation—strengthening both their reputation and their operational resilience in the long term.

Legislative Breakdown: Overview of Bills Enacted and/or in Progress

California SB553:  

Mandates the development of workplace violence prevention programs and hazard assessments, focusing on public-facing employees. Employers are required to maintain an incident log, with certain sectors like healthcare and law enforcement currently exempt.

New York Bill 2023-S8358C: 

This bill focuses on the retail industry, requiring employers to provide workplace violence prevention programs and panic buttons for employee protection.

Virginia HB1616: 

Requires companies with over 100 employees to develop workplace violence policies and maintain records of violent incidents for at least five years.