PERSONAL SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE

• People who handle money are at greater risk, even within the workplace. This increases if they work in isolated areas. Review their safety, physical security and emergency procedures.
• Personal alarms and emergency buttons improve staff safety and confidence, thus preventing them appearing nervous in the presence of an awkward customer.
• When dealing with customers do not have them waiting excessive lengths of time to deal with them or have someone else see them. Excessive delays can annoy a person and increase tension or agression.
• If you are uncomfortable with a client do not feel embarrassed about seeking assistance.
• If your job entails dealing with the public request proper training to avoid or de-escalate potentially violent situations, especially if you are the person who is called upon to deal with customer complaints. Remember, your employer has a duty to ensure your safety through proper planning, organisation, control, and review of preventative and protective measures. (Health and Safey at Work Regulations).

If you are confronted with a threatening situation:

• Do not get drawn into an argument. This may make matters worse.
• Stay calm and speak slowly and clearly to the client.
• Leave and get help. If you have been abused or assaulted you have the right to contact the police.

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE A THREAT

Also, ask the the staff about their concerns and ideas on how the business can be safer and crime free. If they are working in the public areas and you are not they may be more aware of the risks than you. Their comments and ideas are invaluable.

Now that you have done that, formulate a plan of action for your staff should something happen. Remember this should also include what to do if they are contacted by the Police and requested to attend at the premises following an incident.

Your assesment should include

• Methods to minimise the risk to staff.
• Provide the staff with facilities to help them cope with any incidents of a serious nature.
• Minimise the loss of your stock, but not at the risk or expense of staff.

When you assess your risk and identify your preventative measures you should include:

• Handling and banking money.
• Layout of premises.
• Staff safety, including the safety of staff working away from the premises.
• Staff training in dealing with situations. This should include dealing with shoplifters, violent or aggressive customers, frauds/phoney money.

For a more in depth idea on what you should include in your risk assessment view Appendix A below, a risk assessment form.

APPENDIX A - Risk Assessment Form

Appendix 'A' is a risk assessment form and can be reached by clicking here, "APPENDIX A" or on the title above. The guide should help you review your position in reducing the risk of crime in your workplace. This form has been reproduced with the kind permission of The Scottish Office, Crime Prevention Unit, and appeared in their booklet "Reducing Business Crime" ( a Crown Copyright publication ).

For more information on business crime and prevention see our selection of business contacts, or contact your local Crime Prevention Officer though your local Police Office.