Risk in the workplace.
WHO IS MOST EXPOSED
Anyone handling money Anyone working alone Anyone working at night Anyone dealing with distressed or intoxicated people Anyone visiting unfamiliar premises
WHAT TO ESTABLISH
What the employer has put in place.
WHAT AN EMPLOYER SHOULD PROVIDE
Assessment of the risk Measures reducing it Training A way to summon help Permission to withdraw
WHY PERMISSION TO WITHDRAW MATTERS MOST
Hesitation to leave is what turns a threat into an injury.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH FOR YOURSELF
That you may leave a situation without justifying it afterwards.
WHAT TO DO WHEN VISITING UNFAMILIAR PREMISES
Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return Confirm the appointment beforehand Arrange to check in
WHY CHECKING IN
Missed contact is the only indication that something has happened.
WHAT TO DO ON ARRIVAL
Assess before entering Note the exit Keep your route out clear
WHAT TO DO IF SOMETHING FEELS WRONG
Leave.
WHY WITHOUT EXPLANATION
Explaining requires staying.
WHAT TO DO ABOUT AGGRESSION
Do not match it Create distance Keep your voice level Summon help
WHAT NOT TO DO
Attempt to restrain anyone Pursue anyone Protect property physically
WHY
None of it is worth an injury, and it frequently makes matters worse.
WHAT TO REPORT
Every incident and threat, however minor.
WHY
Patterns indicate developing risk.
