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The safety and well-being of employees during a labor dispute should be the number one priority for any business. Unfortunately, in today’s world, the threat of workplace violence is a serious and growing concern. A comprehensive workplace violence prevention program is a multi-faceted strategy that includes things like employee training and clear reporting procedures. However, one of the most powerful and effective components of any such program is a professional, on-site security guard service. A trained security officer is more than just a deterrent; they are a key part of a proactive strategy to prevent, de-escalate, and respond to potentially violent incidents, including those related to high-risk terminations and labor disputes.
The Power of a Visible Deterrent
The simple, visible presence of a uniformed, professional security officer is a powerful deterrent against many forms of workplace violence. An individual who may be contemplating an act of aggression, whether it’s a disgruntled customer or a former employee, is far less likely to act on those impulses when they are faced with an immediate and professional security presence. This proactive deterrence is the first and most important layer of defense.
De-escalation: The Most Important Skill
One of the most valuable skills a modern security officer possesses is the ability to de-escalate a tense situation before it can turn violent.
- Verbal Judo: Professional security officers are trained in verbal de-escalation techniques, often called “verbal judo.” They are skilled at using a calm, authoritative tone and specific communication strategies to defuse an angry or agitated individual’s emotions and to guide the situation toward a peaceful resolution.
- Early Intervention: A security officer is trained to recognize the behavioral warning signs of potential aggression. This allows them to intervene early in a developing conflict, before it can reach a boiling point.
Managing High-Risk Situations: Terminations and Labor Disputes
Certain events in a business’s life cycle carry a higher risk of conflict.
- High-Risk Terminations: The termination of an employee can be an emotionally charged event. Having a discreet but present security officer on-site during a high-risk termination provides a crucial layer of protection for your HR staff and management. The officer’s presence ensures that the process can be conducted safely and that the terminated employee can be escorted from the property without incident.
- Labor Disputes and Strikes: A labor dispute or a strike can create a very tense and volatile environment. A professional security service is essential for maintaining order, protecting company property from vandalism, and ensuring the safety of both striking and non-striking employees. They can provide a neutral, professional presence to prevent confrontations and to document any unlawful activity.
As the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) makes clear, employers have a general duty to provide a safe workplace, and having a comprehensive violence prevention program is a key part of fulfilling that duty.
Triumph Protection: Your Partner in Workplace Violence Prevention
A professional security service is a vital partner in your commitment to creating a safe and secure work environment for your employees. For businesses looking to implement a proactive safety plan, the team at Triumph Protection has the expertise you need. We specialize in providing security for sensitive situations like labor dispute and strike security. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.