Should my workplace prepare for active assailants? This is a question many would not want to think about. However, thinking about and planning for such a risk does not make it more likely to happen.
The risk of workplace violence involving firearms has increased in North America. It is reasonable to assume that, with a growing number of employees returning to work amid heightened stress and anxiety stemming from significant global events, the risk will continue to grow.
This is just one example of the stressors that could drive greater emotional distress among employees. With 25 percent of the workforce grappling with mental health challenges on any given day, there is also an increased risk of intrapersonal conflicts and violence.
Employers are morally and legally required to provide employees with a safe working environment. One critical action to help keep employees safe is preparing for the unimaginable: an armed assailant threatening to do harm. By proactively preparing for active assailants, organizations can protect their employees and foster a culture of safety and support, ultimately enhancing morale, productivity, and crisis readiness.
Preparing a workforce for the possibility of an active shooter incident must be done in a way that does not instill unwarranted fear. Before an airplane takes off, passengers are instructed on what to do in the event of a crash. The goal is not to dwell on the idea of crashing but to prepare people mentally for their options in an emergency. The same holds true for armed assailant preparation.
This training should be part of a comprehensive emergency response plan that outlines procedures, including evacuation routes and lockdown protocols. The goal is to educate employees on what to do and what not to do. Training can also help employees and leaders recognize early warning signs of violence.
Examples of Events That Can Trigger Violence
The following are examples of events that can trigger acts of violence resulting in an armed weapon being brought into the workplace:
- Personal Grievances: An employee may harbor grievances against coworkers, supervisors, or the organization, leading to violent outbursts. For instance, the tragic events of April 6, 1999, when Pierre Lebrun, a shy 40-year-old man with a stutter who was teased relentlessly, took revenge against employees at an Ottawa transportation garage.
- Mental Health Issues: Individuals struggling with mental health challenges may lack the support or interventions needed to curb disturbing thoughts or actions, potentially leading to violent behaviors.
- Access to Firearms: The prevalence and accessibility of firearms can increase the likelihood of gun-related incidents in the workplace.
- Workplace Culture: A toxic work environment, characterized by bullying, harassment, or high stress, can escalate tensions and contribute to violent acts.
- Economic Factors: Job loss, financial instability, or feelings of hopelessness may drive individuals to commit acts of violence, including the use of firearms.
- Domestic Issues: Problems outside of work, such as domestic disputes or relationship troubles, may spill over into the workplace, resulting in violence.
- Ideological Extremism: Individuals motivated by ideological, political, or religious beliefs may turn to violence.
Employers must recognize that access to weapons is becoming easier in North America. They should not assume that, because something has not happened in the past, it cannot or will not occur. Employers need to prepare their workforces for crises that go beyond business continuity events like power outages.
Risks of Unpreparedness
Employees who are unprepared for a crisis, such as an armed assailant, face an increased risk of tragedy. Examples of unpreparedness include:
- Hesitation: Employees who observe a masked individual entering with a rifle hesitate or freeze, leading to missed opportunities to act or contact authorities.
- Unfamiliarity With the Emergency Plan: A lack of clarity about emergency plans can lead to fear, confusion, and disorganized or ineffective responses.
- Failure to Communicate: Overwhelmed employees may fail to warn others or contact law enforcement promptly.
Steps Employers Can Take
To prepare for the risk of an armed assailant, employers should adopt practical measures that do not create unnecessary fear:
- Armed Assailant Crisis Readiness Training: Train employees on how to react. Conduct practice drills, similar to fire drills, to teach and learn from mistakes or inactions.
- Emergency Plans: Ensure all employees are familiar with the workplace’s emergency response plan.
- Communication Tools: Provide job aids, such as infographics, with clear instructions on what to do during a crisis.
What to Do If Faced With an Armed Assailant
Knowing what to do—and what not to do—is critical if someone enters the workplace with a firearm. The goal is to reduce the risk of becoming a target by prioritizing self-protection and contacting emergency services.
What to Do
Run (Evacuate):
- Escape the building if it is safe to do so.
- Encourage others to leave with you, but don’t wait if it puts you at risk.
- Leave personal belongings behind.
Hide:
- If escape isn’t possible, find a safe hiding place.
- Lock doors or barricade yourself in.
- Stay quiet and silence your phone.
Alert Authorities:
- Call 911 if it is safe to do so.
- Provide details about the location, number, and description of the assailant(s).
Stay Calm:
- Take deep breaths and focus on staying calm to make rational decisions.
Follow Law Enforcement Instructions:
- Keep your hands visible and follow commands when law enforcement arrives.
- Avoid sudden movements that could be misinterpreted.
What Not to Do
Don’t Confront the Gunman:
- Avoid attempting to negotiate, confront, or disarm the individual.
Don’t Assume It’s a Drill:
- Treat every situation as real.
Don’t Reveal Your Position:
- Stay silent and avoid movements that might expose your hiding place.
Don’t Use Social Media:
- Avoid posting about the situation, as it can cause confusion.
Don’t Leave Prematurely:
- Stay hidden until law enforcement confirms it is safe to leave.
