According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022 alone, there were 2,804,200 non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses, with 5,486 fatal injuries recorded over the same period. While workplace injuries and illness remain an issue within every industry, these numbers are made all the more concerning when taking the rise of workplace violence (WPV) into account. According to OSHA, there are more than 2 million reports each year, with frontline workers within the hospitality and healthcare sectors at particular risk.

Taken together, these figures paint a worrying picture of the state of the workplace in the US, with literally millions suffering illness or injury at work or otherwise feeling unsafe within their workplace. The good news is that, by introducing safety officers within your organization, you can take steps to improve workplace safety and security through comprehensive risk assessments, policy development, education and training, and compliance monitoring.   

Having worked closely with safety officers across numerous industries when integrating our panic button solutions, we have some insight into this important organizational role. Here then, we explore the core responsibilities of a safety officer and why it is important that your business considers hiring one. Read on to learn more.

Who is a Safety Officer?

A safety officer is a safety professional responsible for overseeing and enforcing safety protocols and regulations within the workplace, usually with expertise in occupational health and safety standards, risk assessment, and emergency response procedures. They work closely with management and employees to identify potential hazards, develop safety policies, conduct training sessions, and ensure compliance with industry regulations and legislation. Ultimately, a safety officer’s job is to introduce safety measures that help build a safe and healthy work environment where employees can perform their duties without risking their well-being or health.

Roles of a Workplace Safety Officer

The role of a safety officer is broad, covering a range of safety management responsibilities including implementing and maintaining safety standards, conducting risk assessments, developing safety policies, conducting training sessions, and monitoring compliance with regulatory standards. Below, we look at the responsibilities of a safety officer in more detail.

Risk Assessment       

A risk assessment is a fundamental element of any occupational health and safety program, and it should be the first thing any safety officer aims to conduct. Of course, the elements of a risk assessment will be dependent on your specific industry and sector;, however, it is likely to include regular safety inspections alongside these elements:

•   Identifying sources of chemical, biological, and physical hazards.
•   Assessing ergonomic factors that may contribute to musculoskeletal disorders.
•   Evaluating potential fire hazards and emergency evacuation procedures.
•   Examining electrical systems for compliance with safety standards.
•   Identifying potential zones or flashpoints where workplace violence may occur.

Policy and Protocol Development

Safety procedures, policies, and protocols are another essential responsibility of a safety officer, and collaboration with management and other relevant stakeholders is key when building a safe working environment. This may involve:,

• Establishing clear guidelines for personal protective equipment (PPE) usage.
• Defining procedures for reporting hazards, incidents, and near misses.
• Outlining protocols for responding to emergencies such as fires, chemical spills, medical emergencies, and WPV.
• Encouraging feedback from employees to ensure policies are practical and effective.

Safety Training and Education

As part of an expansive health and safety program, a safety officer should offer regular training programs and provide materials that help educate staff on risks, policies, and compliance standards. This may include elements such as:

• Proper handling and storage of hazardous materials.
• Safe operation of machinery and equipment.
• Techniques for preventing slips, trips, and falls.
• Training employees on first aid and emergency response procedures.
• WPV prevention, response, and management.

Compliance Monitoring

 Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and standards is a core responsibility of any safety officer. They conduct regular inspections and audits to assess the workplace for adherence to safety protocols and regulatory requirements. This involves:

• Reviewing documentation to verify that safety policies and procedures are being followed.
• Inspecting work areas for potential hazards and non-compliance with safety regulations.
• Investigating incidents and near misses to identify root causes and prevent recurrence.
• Collaborating with regulatory agencies to address any compliance issues or concerns.

Continuous Improvement

Building safer workplaces requires continuous evaluation and improvement, and safety officers play a critical role in fostering this type of culture. This means:

• Analyzing incident reports and near misses to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Soliciting feedback from employees to identify potential safety concerns or suggestions for improvement.
• Implementing corrective actions and preventive measures to address identified issues.
• Keeping abreast of new developments in safety technology, regulations, and best practices.

Why Your Business Should Consider Hiring a Safety Officer    

Regardless of the industry your business operates in, a safety officer can be an invaluable addition to your staff. In manufacturing and construction industries they can help you identify and mitigate industrial safety issues related to heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and high-risk work environments. In healthcare and hospitality sectors, they can help create a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors, reducing the potential for workplace violence or aggressive behaviors. Even in retail settings, safety officers can help minimize risks related to slips, trips, and falls, as well as provide education on safety topics relevant to the sector.

All in all, a safety officer can help your organization foster an improved safety culture, which in turn can lead to better returns on your safety expenditure. For more information on improving workplace safety and security procedures and maximizing your ROI, contact ROAR today to discuss your specific requirements or book a demo of our panic button system.

According to EHS Today and the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses rose 7.5% in 2022, from 2.3 million in 2021 to 2.8 million. However, with fewer than half of employees not reporting potentially recordable injuries, health and safety professionals believe that much more can be done to reduce actual occupational injury rates across the US.

There are several recommended measures to achieve this, including encouraging workers to report all types of workplace injury or illness; however, underpinning them all is the need for accurate and reliable data that tracks recordable incident rates. This kind of safety metric, among others, delivers valuable insights into safety performance, giving organizations tangible benchmarks on which to base the efficacy of EHS programs.

In fact, our clients are already using these metrics to monitor how their programs work to improve safety within the workplace, and one specific data point they report as particularly valuable is lost time incidents (LTIs). So, through our experience of using data to provide businesses with purpose-driven technologies designed to protect vulnerable employees, this article will explore why it’s important to track LTIs, how they impact your bottom line, and how to prevent or reduce them.

What is a Lost Time Incident or Injury?

 A lost time incident (LTI) is an event that occurs during working hours that leads to employee injury or when an employee is involved in an accident that hampers their ability to perform their regular job duties. Ultimately, these recordable work-related injuries and incidents lead to absenteeism and lost working hours, as well as disrupting workflows, decreasing productivity, and impacting other workers within an organization.

Why it’s Important to Track LTI Data

In the US, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires organizations with more than 10 employees to keep a record of serious work-related injuries and illnesses, and incidents recorded must be submitted annually through the Injury Tracking Application (ITA). While this requirement is a mandatory element of maintaining a legal workplace, it can also enable your organization to track LTI data and put measures in place that reduce injury and absenteeism and increase efficiency and productivity.

 In fact, since LTI data is a key indicator of the efficacy of your health and safety programs, we have found that it is crucial in identifying trends or patterns that allow you to put preventative measures in place. Alongside other metrics such as lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) and injury severity rate (ISR), LTI data gives your organization the tools information it needs to improve safety for all employees.

Understanding the Costs of Lost Time Incidents and Injuries

The bottom line is that each lost time accident your organization records has a financial impact on your organization, so reducing the rate of incidences can help boost growth and drive profitability. Direct costs include medical expenses, the replacement or upgrading of safety equipment, and investigation costs, as well as potential compensation and legal fees if the employer is found to be at fault.

In addition, an organization with a high number of LTIs may also incur other indirect costs that include low employee morale leading to high turnover, lost productivity, the temporary or permanent replacement of workers, increased insurance premiums, and reputation damage. Taken together, both the direct and indirect costs can very quickly become unmanageable, particular for smaller organizations that do not have the capital to deal with multiple claims at the same time. 

Methods for Calculating Costs

Understanding the costs involved with LTIs is the first step to reducing incidence rates, and ROAR’s expertise in helping you realize an ROI on panic button systems means we can help you calculate expenditure per employee. However, it is important to remember that this metric should not be taken alone and should be calculated alongside other metrics such as TCOR (total cost of risk) when evaluating elements of your safety program.

In most cases, the lost time incident rate (LTIR) calculation is based on a total of 200,000 hours which represents 100 employees working 40 hrs per week over a 50-week period of time. However, in high incident industries or those considered hazardous, the base total may be reduced to 100,000 hours over the same given period. This high figure is used to ensure realistic calculations across most industries; however, it is also worth noting that the LTIR is known as a “lagging indicator” since it measures the number of lost time injuries that have already happened.

Below, we highlight the calculations your organization needs to begin benchmarking your health and safety performance, providing a standardized way of comparing incident rates to the costs incurred. To break things down a little, we have also included an example of how to start.

·  LTIR = (Total LTIs / Total number of hours) × 200,000

·  TCOR = Direct Costs + Indirect Costs

So, let’s say your calendar year ends with 3 lost time injuries and you estimate 180,000 hours worked. The calculation is as follows:

• 3 / 180,000 x 200,000 = 3.33 LTIs per 100 workers

Next, you can calculate the costs incurred. Let’s say that the total direct costs associated with those incidents were $20,000 and indirect costs were $5,000:

• $20,000 + $5,000 = $25,000

So, to get the costs per worker, you can use this calculation: 

• Costs per Worker = TCOR/LTIR

Or

• $25,000 / 3.33​ = $7,508 per worker

Strategies to Prevent Lost Time Incidents 

Once you are able to measure LTIR and TCOR metrics, your organization can begin to build safety management strategies that reduce absenteeism, injury, lost productivity, and costs, helping your employees to feel safer and your organization to build happy and inclusive workplaces. Below, we look at a few strategies to prevent LTIs in your workplace.

1. Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification

Conducting a thorough risk assessment, creating a workplace violence prevention plan, and identifying potential hazards is the first step in preventing LTIs. This involves evaluating the work environment, the equipment used, and employee activities to pinpoint potential risks. 

2. Implementing Robust Safety Training Programs

Educating employees on workplace safety and security procedures, emergency protocols, proper equipment and PPE usage, and providing first aid training are crucial for preventing LTIs. In addition, regular training sessions can reinforce safety practices and raise awareness of potential hazards.

3. Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

Establishing a culture of continuous improvement involves regularly monitoring and assessing safety performance. This can be achieved through incident reporting systems, regular safety audits, and feedback mechanisms. Identifying and addressing root causes of incidents ensures that preventive measures are continually refined.

Finally, feedback from our clients has shown us how effective panic button systems can be in reducing incidence rates in industries with the most vulnerable workers, while also improving safety culture across the board to decrease turnover and improving job satisfaction among many other metrics. For more information on how real-world solutions to LTIs can help your organization, explore our case studies here or contact a member of our team to discuss your specific requirements and request a demo.

Best Practices for Creating a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan

For business owners across the US, addressing rising levels of violence in the workplace has become a top priority. Today, whether in the healthcare sector, in schools and in government buildings, or even in retail and sales, there is no industry that is unaffected, with acts of violence and other disruptive behavior remaining a concern for all types of business—and one that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon.

However, with the right preparation and planning, you can prevent or mitigate violent incidents in any setting, improving workplace safety and security procedures so that you can improve peace of mind for both employees and customers. One way to do this is to implement a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVP). 

We recently teamed up with a hotel chain that was eager to enhance its safety measures. After integrating our panic buttons, they incorporated this tech into their overall Workplace Violence Prevention Plan. The staff felt more at ease, knowing that they had a quick way to get help if they needed it.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to the benefits of a WVP and some best practices to follow when implementing one. Read on to learn more.

The Disturbing Rise in Workplace Violence

In a wide-ranging study conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) between 1992 and 2019, the disturbing rise of verbal abuse, threats of violence and physical assaults, was clear to see. In fact, between 2015 and 2019, there was a staggering 25% increase in nonfatal incidents of workplace violence, accounting for 9.2 violent crimes per 1000 workers.

In addition to these stats, as highlighted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), it is estimated that some 2 million Americans are the victims of workplace violence every year, with a higher risk for workers who exchange money with the public; deliver passengers, goods, or services; or work alone or in small groups. Protecting these employees and others is highly important for any type of business and something that requires organization and preparation.

Legislation relating to the healthcare industry that targets this type of workplace violence has recently been passed in Texas, however, while legislation is one step in the right direction, it alone cannot hope to stem the rise of workplace violence. In order to do this, businesses and organizations should prepare a Workplace Violence Prevention Program and examine their existing threat assessment and prevention strategies.

A Workplace Violence Prevention Plan Can Improve Safety

Regardless of state law, any business looking to improve safety and security can benefit from a WVP plan. In addition, a comprehensive plan will allow you to comply with the OSHA Duty of Care Act, as well as prepare your business for any future legislation that may be passed in the state your business operates. 

A WVP plan does this by helping your business to: 

• Demonstrate a commitment to preventing workplace violence and improving working conditions, making the workplace safer for all users. 
• Implement a risk assessment roadmap to identify potential sources of violent behavior, addressing the specific risks faced by different departments or roles within the organization.
• Enable faster response times to incidents as they are happening, implementing clear guidance for teams or individuals who deal with violence in the workplace, particularly lone workers.
• Provide ongoing support for those involved in incidents, helping to mitigate any long-term emotional or physical impact of such incidents.
• Ensure data and information collected from incidents are used to improve future responses, ensuring your WVP is updated in line with the specific challenges faced by your organization. 

Taken together, these elements provide tangible improvements to employee safety, ensuring staff feel supported before, during, and after incidents take place. Additionally, as your WVP develops over time, you can expect to see further improvements as you incorporate lessons learned, as well as adjust your strategies in line with regulatory changes.

Best Practices for Building a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan

As with any kind of organizational policy, building on a set of best practices is a great way to start. Naturally, you will then need to develop certain areas of your plan to bring them in line with the unique requirements of your organization. So, to get you started, we compiled some basic concepts to consider when building your Workplace Violence Prevention plan. 

Communication and Training

Regular training sessions should aim to educate employees about the importance of workplace safety, how to identify warning signs, and how to report incidents. In addition, open lines of communication between staff and management should look to build a culture of respect and understanding, removing potential barriers to incident reporting or alerts.

Risk Assessment Plan

A comprehensive risk assessment is the foundation of an effective WVP plan, identifying potential risk factors, such as high-stress roles, customer-facing positions, and isolated work environments. By understanding these risks, your organization can target specific areas where incidents are likely to take place and ensure adequate training is given to individuals and teams. 

Emergency Response Procedures

Clear emergency response procedures that outline how to act in the event of a violent incident are crucial. This includes evacuation routes, lockdown procedures, and communication protocols, as well as how staff, security, and management should deal with the aftermath of an incident. Document these policies and procedures and present them during your onboarding process,  including them in your employee handbook to ensure they are widely acknowledged and accessible across your organization. 

Wireless Panic Buttons

Implementation of 911 Panic buttons can be used effectively as part of your WVP plan, not only providing a reliable and immediate alert when an incident is taking place but also increasing the peace of mind of staff members – providing an instant link to emergency services. 

Law Enforcement

Establish relationships with local law enforcement and relevant agencies in your area, particularly if your business is at high risk of extreme incidents. These connections can ensure a swift and effective response from local agencies who will already have knowledge of the specific challenges faced by your business. 

Support Services

Provide access to support services, such as an employee assistance program (EAP) or counseling for employees who have experienced or witnessed workplace violence. This can mitigate the long-term physical or emotional impact of such incidents, while simultaneously increasing peace of mind for staff who will know they can count on your support.  

We helped a multi-unit massage therapy chain install our panic button technology after they had some safety incidents. Later, they told us that combining our system with their own EAP made a big difference. Not only did their staff feel safer, but fewer people quit their jobs because they felt the company was looking out for them.

Updates and Reviews

Workplace dynamics and risk factors can change over time, so it’s essential to regularly review and update the WVP plan to incorporate lessons learned from incident reports. In addition, regular updates to your WVP will allow you to stay up to date with regulatory changes, adjusting your protocols as necessary.

Bonus resource for healthcare facilities: Check out the Crisis Prevention Institute’s Workplace Violence Prevention Handbook for a thorough and practical guide geared towards the complexity and care needed to mitigate workplace violence within healthcare.

Conclusion

There is no single solution to preventing workplace violence, rather a combination of proactive measures, ongoing training, and the introduction of preventative technologies such as panic buttons. However, by acknowledging workplace violence and its potential impact, organizations can take a big step towards creating a safer and more secure worksite for their employees.

Every organization is unique, with its own set of challenges, and so the best practices outlined in this article should be tailored to fit the specific needs and circumstances of each workplace. Remember, a Workplace Violence Prevention plan is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment to safety and well-being. 

Panic button use is on the rise as frontline workers face increased violence and, more recently, more unruly and aggressive customers, patients, and guests. This is happening across all industries—hotels, healthcare facilities, education, retail, churches, and more. 

Panic button solutions offer a variety of benefits to organizations using them, helping to de-escalate incidents and indirectly contributing to the recruitment and retention of employees while allowing cost savings associated with workers comp claims, liability insurance, and more. 

Choosing the right system for your specific needs takes time and careful consideration since each property presents a unique set of challenges. For example, most commercial buildings have dead zones or areas where there is no WIFI or LTE connection and, therefore, no communication. In 2017, the International Association of Fire Chiefs Survey reported that  98.5% of first responders reported dead spots in buildings, with 56% of those surveyed experienced in-building communications failure in emergencies and 31% experienced communication failure. 

This means many of the buildings that clients want to implement panic button solutions don’t have the means to send instant and reliable communication, with concrete walls, metal structures, or multiple floors obstructing radio signals or causing signal interference that can result in static, dropouts, or garbled messages, hampering effective communication between teams. Subsequently, any bundled emergency alert packages that rely on two-way radio as part of its network are often unfit for purpose, depending too heavily on technologies that are prone to dropouts (we talk about why safety devices should have a singular purpose in our “Why More is Less: How Extra Add-ons Could Cause More Harm” blog post).

There’s also the business interruption or added costs a solution may require, both directly and indirectly. For example, some solutions must be plugged into an outlet. There are often requirements that include coverage in stairwells or outdoor areas that may not have access to power outlets, requiring an electrician, extra wiring, or other infrastructure. Or perhaps the maintenance of the solution requires more of your staff’s time, leading to costs based on their time or added workload. 

While these factors are priorities for any businesses looking to implement panic button solutions, there are other elements to consider when making an informed decision. To help you narrow down your needs and identify the right panic button solution for your facility, we take a deep dive into the kinds of things you should consider when researching panic button solutions. Additionally, at the end of this article you’ll find a downloadable checklist to help you organize and assess the best solution for you. 

1. Reliability

The reliability of any panic button device and its wider infrastructure is of critical concern to all users and stakeholders. After all, the efficacy of individual buttons and ability to provide reassurance in case of an incident depend expressly on uninterrupted functionality. This means that any panic button system must work, and work well:

• In challenging environments where signal interference can occur from wireless devices or medical equipment.
• In areas where WiFi or LTE may be unreliable.

Further to the second point, it’s important to ensure a panic button provider has  considered failure points and added redundancies from the moment a staff member presses the device to when help is summoned to their location. This means identifying standalone solutions that don’t rely on existing WIFI networks, as well as utilizing a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) to be assured the system will work in power outages.

2. Coverage & Performance

The reliability of a panic button system is directly linked to its coverage. Ensuring the appropriate coverage throughout a facility, especially in isolated areas like stairwells, basements, and parking lots with no WIFI or LTE signal, is crucial. These areas often require coverage to support staff working alone. Both indoor and outdoor coverage should be provided, considering complex facilities and older buildings with potential WiFi and LTE signal challenges. Important factors include network coverage, range, signal strength, and building penetration. 

3. Accuracy

To expedite assistance and allow timely intervention, the geo-location technology used within panic button systems must provide room and floor level accuracy. This is particularly important in multi-level facilities, as well as buildings with complex layouts, no line of sight, where workers may be isolated, and based on the types of construction material. 

 Accuracy must be precise as inaccurate geo-location data can lead to delays in providing assistance, which can be detrimental when seconds can matter in locating your staff. 

4. Scalability and Expandability

Scalability and expandability are vital considerations when selecting a panic button system, especially for organizations that anticipate growth or changes in their safety and security requirements. A system that offers scalability and expandability can adapt to evolving needs, ensuring continued effectiveness and long-term value.

This includes considerations such as the capacity to add additional users without negatively affecting the network, options for multi-site support, and the capability to expand the network to areas without power outlets.

5. Training and 24/7 Support

The functionality and coverage of a panic button system are of little consequence if staff cannot effectively and correctly use it. Additionally, in case of issues with any part of the system, 24/7 technical support is a crucial consideration that should be factored into any panic button system selection—ensuring the system is always working when it is most needed. 

 Comprehensive training on using individual panic button devices, and how to respond to an alert (as direct users and responders) must be considered a minimum. In addition, beacon installation and maintenance, system onboarding, and training programs that can be provided anytime and in multiple languages are signs of a good provider. Finally, care should be given to check whether these services are provided free of charge or at extra cost, as well as whether they cover the entire lifetime of the system.

6. Alert Notification Channels

Alerts are also important when weighing up panic button systems, and multiple alert delivery methods across popular devices should be a minimum, including support for iOS and Android devices across a range of notification systems. Ensure there’s a dedicated console at the front desk or in a dedicated security office for centralized monitoring to ensure alerts are never missed. Additionally, mobile notifications on iOS and Android devices (perhaps even smart watches) will allow for immediate response from anywhere within the facility. 

Don’t forget about your lone or overnight workers either. Who will receive the alerts when they’re by themselves?  911 integration or local emergency services for fast dispatch of responders may be the answer depending on the needs of your facility.

7. Regulatory Compliance

Within certain industries in certain states, there are varying compliance, regulatory, and security requirements in place, dictating standards on how a panic button system should work to keep staff safe and reduce workplace risk. In fact, even in those places where legal compliance is not mandatory, new laws may be just around the corner.

For these reasons, choosing a panic button system that complies with local, regional, or national regulations related to emergency communication and safety measures is an important consideration. In addition, verifying that the system adheres to industry-specific requirements may also be an important factor to consider. 

8. Self-monitoring System 

Panic button systems should be hassle-free and self-monitoring, providing quick and simple solutions to a range of common network issues. This includes issues such as battery charge and health, overall network health, and device connectivity. 

Self-monitoring systems ensure facility managers proactively perceive how the system is doing vs having to reactively check if it’s on and working to identify any connectivity issues before they become a problem. This enables a range of cost savings associated with network maintenance for your staff.  

9. Data Reporting and Analytics

Reporting features allow you to monitor network health over longer periods and view alert history to look for trends. This kind of data can be invaluable to improving safety protocols in your organization, as well as making data-driven decisions to enhance the overall effectiveness of the panic button system.

Reporting capabilities vary between providers, however, you should consider network health monitoring, alert history and trends, and compliance reporting when researching panic button systems.

10. 911 Option 

When considering a panic button solution, think carefully about whether you need a direct link to emergency services. Access to 911 panic buttons can enhance the safety of individuals working in potentially high-risk or isolated environments, providing a direct link to emergency services when the panic button is activated.

11. Reduce Incident Escalation

While panic buttons should be discreetly worn by staff to prevent unauthorized access or tampering, a good provider will help your facility signal their use to act as a deterrent and potentially reduce incident escalation. This can be achieved in a number of ways. Examples include

1. Through signage displayed throughout the facility
2. Through training for staff in when and how to leverage panic buttons when de-escalation training isn’t sufficient, enhancing its ability to act as an effective deterrent. 

Work with your panic button provider on best procedures they’ve seen you can utilize on how to set-up training for incident de-escalation and deterrence and ask for their de-escalation training partners.

12. Improving Burnout, Turnover, and Liability = Positive ROI

A good panic button provider will understand the specific challenges of your facility and the wider industry in which it operates. Staff that feel safer and supported at work are less likely to suffer the adverse effects of stress, meaning job burnout is less likely and staff retention rates are improved. 

Fewer incidents, and incidents that are effectively deescalated, mean less workers comp claims and lower insurance premiums. As a tool for improving ROI, a good panic button provider will provide you access to data and cost savings that can help support your case when talking to decision makers to show the significant return on investment once a panic button system is successfully installed and in use.

13. Customer Success

As in any industry, successfully meeting the needs of target customers is a useful metric on which to base your decision, giving you information on how a panic button solution is deployed and whether it meets the needs of its clients. If they are published, both Customer Satisfaction (CSAT) or Net Promoter Score (NPS) can be useful metrics on which to judge a provider. These scores provide insights into how well the provider’s clients are served and whether their solutions meet or even exceed expectations.

Additionally, gaining insights from reviews and testimonials of existing customers can provide a valuable, first-hand account of the provider’s performance. Positive feedback and endorsements from these customers not only reflect the effectiveness of their panic button system but also indicate a provider that can be trusted to deliver on their promises.

Real-world case studies can also be useful, showcasing examples of where the panic button system has improved staff safety and security, possibly even mitigating common incidents that could have escalated. An exceptional provider can go a step further and tie these success stories to tangible return on investment (ROI) figures, such as reduced workers’ compensation claims, improved staff retention rates, and other cost savings.

14. Proven Expertise

 Expertise and experience in the field, in specific industries and sectors, and with individual roles and professions can make all the difference when it comes to providing a targeted system that works for you. The development of an effective panic button solution should ideally involve all key stakeholders, including staff members and security officers, and providers that collaborate with those who understand the operational intricacies and safety needs of facilities ensures that the panic button system is both effective and aligned with real-world requirements.

In addition, industry-specific experience with a strong track record across different sectors are indicative of a provider’s ability to deliver reliable solutions, and those with a history of delivering panic button systems to organizations within your industry or similar sectors are better equipped to understand the unique challenges and demands you face.

 Finally, affiliations and partnerships with leading organizations within your industry can also speak volumes about a provider’s expertise and reputation. Such affiliations demonstrate a commitment to staying connected with industry trends, best practices, and advancements, all of which contribute a more comprehensive panic button solution. Choosing a provider with a proven track record of expertise ensures that you are partnering with professionals who bring a deep understanding of your industry’s safety needs and an ability to address them effectively.

15. Supplier Diversity Programs or ESG Goals

While a panic button solution that meets your industry-specific needs and those of your staff is a critical consideration, thought should also be given to how the provider treats its own staff, the community in which it operates, and the wider world. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals are increasingly seen as a necessity and not a luxury, as a diverse, inclusive, and respectful company can provide different perspectives and innovative thinking, as well as sustainable supply chains that can contribute to your own ESG goals.

To this end, if your organization is focused on ESG goals, collaborating with a panic button provider that can assist in collecting and providing relevant data can be extremely valuable. Sharing this data with your partners and customers/clients showcases your dedication to responsible and sustainable business practices, enhancing transparency and accountability. By working with a provider that understands and supports your supplier diversity and ESG objectives, you can extend your organization’s positive impact beyond the immediate implementation of a panic button system, feeding back into your community and the wider world.

Panic Button Provider Checklist

To help you choose a panic button provider that meets your business needs, download our checklist and keep it handy during your search.

Lone working, the practice of individuals carrying out their tasks without direct supervision or immediate colleagues, is prevalent across numerous industries and encompasses a broad range of different roles. In many cases, lone working is simply defined by the role; in others, it may be intermittent and dependent on staffing levels. Regardless of the reasons for lone working, the practice presents unique challenges and safety risks that employers should take into consideration.

Understanding what lone working entails and implementing measures to ensure the safety and well-being of lone workers should be a key component of any health & safety program, ensuring that all employees enjoy a safe and secure working environment. So, in this article we will explore the concept of lone working, examine the risks involved, discuss the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees, and delve into the development of lone working policies and procedures. Read on to learn more.

What Is a Lone Worker?

While The Occupational Safety and Health Administration does not provide a specific definition of a lone worker, OSHA does acknowledge that lone workers are those who perform their job duties without direct supervision or immediate assistance from colleagues. In a 2011 OSHA Standard for Occupational Safety and Health Standards for Shipyard Employment, they also state that “The employer shall account for each employee by sight or verbal communication… whenever an employee is working alone, such as in a confined space or isolated location.”

Examples of Lone Workers – Who Can Work Alone?

While it is possible that any employee in any industry may find themselves working alone at some point in their career, there are several sectors where the practice is more prevalent and puts workers at high-risk. These include but are not limited to:

1. Healthcare Professionals — Nurses, doctors, home healthcare providers, and medical researchers who work in remote areas or provide home visits.
2. Hospitality Workers — Hotel staff, concierge services, housekeeping personnel, and event coordinators may all be lone workers as part of their roles.
3. Construction Workers — Contractors, builders, and engineers who operate in confined spaces or work in isolated locations.
4. Real Estate Agents — Property agents who conduct property viewings alone or work remotely.
5. Security Guards —Personnel who patrol buildings or monitor premises without constant supervision.
6. Social Workers — Individuals who work in remote areas, visit clients’ homes, or work in the field providing support and assistance.

What Are the Risks of Lone Working?

Lone workers face specific risks that can compromise their safety and well-being. It is essential to identify and address these risks appropriately. Some common risks include:

1. Health and Safety Hazards — Lone workers may encounter physical risks, such as accidents, falls, or exposure to hazardous substances in areas where immediate assistance is unavailable.
2. Limited Access to First Aid — In the absence of colleagues, lone workers may have limited access to immediate first aid in case of an injury or medical emergency.
3. Violence and Aggression — Certain job roles, such as security guards, social workers and hospitality workers may face the risk of violence or aggression from clients or the public.
4. Mental Health Concerns — Isolation and lack of social interaction can lead to feelings of loneliness, stress, and anxiety among lone workers.
5. Emergency Response Challenges — In the event of an emergency, lone workers may face difficulties in calling for help or receiving timely assistance.
6. Specific Occupational Hazards —Each industry has its own set of risks associated with lone working, such as working at heights for construction workers or encountering volatile patients for healthcare professionals.

Lone Working Rights and Responsibilities

Lone working comes with rights and responsibilities for both employers and employees. Understanding and upholding these rights and responsibilities is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of lone workers.

Employer Responsibilities

 Employers have a duty of care to provide a safe work environment for their lone workers. This includes conducting thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards associated with lone working and ensuring lone working policies and procedures that outline safety guidelines, emergency protocols, and communication protocols are followed.

They are also responsible for providing appropriate training and information to lone workers to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely. Regular contact and check-ins with lone workers should be maintained to monitor their well-being and address any safety concerns promptly. Employers should also consider implementing safety solutions such as wearable panic buttons or lone worker safety devices to enhance the safety of lone workers.

Employee Rights

Lone workers have the right to a safe work environment. They should receive proper training and information on the specific risks and hazards associated with their job roles and should also be involved in the development of lone working policies and procedures. Additionally, they have the right to regular contact and check-ins with their employer or designated contacts to ensure their well-being. Employees have the right to report any safety concerns or hazards they encounter during lone working and expect prompt action to address these issues.

Shared Responsibility

Both employers and employees share the responsibility of maintaining employee safety. Employers should provide the necessary resources, training, and support to enable employees to work safely, while employees, on the other hand, should follow safety guidelines and procedures, utilize safety equipment provided to them, and report any safety concerns promptly. It is important to foster a safety culture where open communication and collaboration between employers and employees are encouraged to ensure the well-being of lone workers.

Lone Working Safety Policy and Procedures

Developing a comprehensive lone worker policy and implementing effective procedures is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of lone workers. This policy should provide clear guidelines and instructions for both employers and employees to follow when working alone. Here are three key considerations for establishing a robust lone working policy and procedures:

1. Risk Assessment — Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify the potential hazards and risks that lone workers may encounter in their specific job roles and work environments. This assessment should cover factors such as the nature of the work, location, time of day, and potential interactions with the public. By understanding these risks, employers can develop appropriate control measures and safeguards to mitigate them.
2. Safety Guidelines and Procedures — Establish clear safety guidelines and procedures that outline the necessary steps and precautions for lone workers to follow. This should include instructions for maintaining communication and regular check-ins, procedures for reporting incidents or emergencies, and guidelines for handling specific risks or hazards associated with the job. These guidelines should be easily accessible to all lone workers and should be regularly communicated and reinforced through training and awareness programs.
3. Communication and Emergency Protocols — Define effective communication protocols to ensure regular contact and check-ins with lone workers. This may include establishing specific times or intervals for contact, providing lone workers with means to easily reach their supervisors or designated contacts, and ensuring that emergency contact information is readily available. Additionally, develop clear emergency response procedures that outline the steps to be followed in the event of an emergency, including who to contact, how to seek help, and any specific measures or equipment available to lone workers for their safety.

Regular reviews of lone working policy and procedures are essential to address any changes in the work environment, job roles, or industry regulations. This ensures that policies remain relevant and effective in maintaining the safety and well-being of lone workers.

How We Keep Lone Workers Safe

With our cutting-edge wearable panic button solutions, ROAR helps employers provide real-time assistance to lone workers in isolated areas or when they are otherwise working without direct supervision or within easy reach of other staff members.  Different safety devices are designed to protect lone workers in different ways, however, our self-healing Bluetooth network & LTE back-up works in areas where WiFi or cell service is unreliable, ensuring zero dead zones and complete coverage. Featuring battery-powered bi-directional beacons that are easy to install and that work as a stand-alone system, lone workers can easily call for assistance when they need it—and know that assistance will be provided.

For more information on our wearable panic button solutions, contact ROAR today to discuss your specific challenges and explore the blog for more industry insights on lone working and much more.

There’s no doubt that workplace violence has been rising in nearly every industry. It’s a difficult time for frontline workers who are grappling with a high workload, pressure to perform promptly, and now, safety risks from rude and unruly customers, guests, and patients in every facility, from hospitality to healthcare and everything in between. 

To add to the safety challenge employers face, recruitment is down, burnout is high, and staffing shortages are at historic levels. Further, since 36% of violent attacks happen at organizations with fewer than 250 employees, even the smallest operations need to address workplace safety measures.

It’s more imperative than ever for businesses to take action and protect their most important investment — their people.

ROAR’s Singular Focus on Worker Safety in Dangerous Work Environments

Safeguarding employees has never been more important than it is today. Since our inception at ROAR, we’ve focused on building the best-in-class wireless panic button solutions to protect people when they need it most. 

Our proof is in the numbers, like with our client BeWell, which saw a decrease in workers’ compensation claims by 24% by leveraging our silent panic button. Or when Hilton Pasadena overcame safety challenges that put their workers in danger of violence and at risk of regulatory violations thanks to the help of ROAR’s safety button.

Our cutting-edge workplace staff safety solutions are designed with a singular purpose: to protect the protectors so they can fearlessly face the challenges that come their way and receive the support and care they deserve. With ROAR, this translates into ensuring their call for help is communicated reliably and accurately so that they can perform at their best without fear, knowing help is one press away. 

Yet, one of the most common questions we receive is why our solution doesn’t do more, with two-way radio functionality being the leading request. There are several competitive solutions that offer a walkie-talkie solution with a panic button add-on feature for emergencies. 

Our response is straightforward: Research has proven technology that performs multiple functions causes confusion, and there will always be compromises to its ability to perform well. We intentionally chose to focus on protecting staff with safety devices and becoming the experts in this domain. We explored the possibilities of add-ons because we want to satisfy our customers’ requests, but we discovered the extra bells and whistles would actually hinder safety. 

How? Most commercial buildings have dead zones or areas where there is no WIFI or LTE connection and, therefore, no communication. In 2017, the International Association of Fire Chiefs Survey reported that  98.5 percent of first responders reported dead spots in buildings. Fifty-six percent of those surveyed experienced in-building communications failure in emergencies and 31 percent experienced communication disruptions. 

This means many of the buildings our prospects or clients want to protect don’t have the means to send instant and reliable communication. The concrete walls, metal structures, or multiple floors obstruct radio signals or cause signal interference that can lead to static, dropouts, or garbled messages, hampering effective communication between teams. 

Simply put, building both into the same solution would put your staff at risk, and we can’t sell you something that does that. That’s why our ROAR Panic Button Solution was built to be stand-alone with a mesh BLE connection and multiple redundancies to ensure communications are always sent, no matter what.

Two-way radio:

• Doesn’t work without WiFi, LTE, or even if the power goes down, or if they are under heavy loads
• Wouldn’t be able to provide coverage in secluded areas, like stairwells or parking lots
• Could compromise the call for help

Imagine this: <crackling static> “Help!…” <garbled audio>

Poor communication reduces response times, increases the risk of the wrong information being communicated, or worse, the call for help not making it through. No one should have to endure a communication breakdown when their safety is at stake. Not only are multi-purpose devices less reliable, they are more costly to purchase, install and retroactively compensate for their flaws.

That’s why our singular focus is on our innovative, wireless panic button that saves lives. We have invested — and continue to invest in — a considerable amount of time, dedication, and effort into acquiring deep knowledge in protecting people. Our commitment is evidenced by the patent we hold, the 100% retention rate we have, and the almost one million people ROAR has protected to date.

“I’d like to reframe the question of ‘Why don’t you add more features?’ to ‘Is there any add-on worth risking your staff’s safety?’. At ROAR, we prioritize the protection of workers above everything else. That’s why hotels, healthcare facilities, public areas, retail spaces, spas, and more choose ROAR. Our one button has one purpose — to deliver maximum safety to provide reinforcement to your staff when they need it most.” – Yasmine Mustafa, CEO, and Co-Founder

Ready to find out how our game-changing wireless panic button solution can improve your workers’ safety while reducing your organization’s risks and costs? Get a Demo.

Safety officers work in industries across the board. From patrolling retail spaces and industrial units to securing hospitals, hotels, and hospitality venues, these dedicated professionals work around the clock to keep people and places safe.

Due to the nature of the job, security officers often have to work alone. This means that their safety and security need extra consideration. All businesses and institutions requiring employees to work independently should have a lone-worker policy in place. Like health and safety policies, policies for lone worker safety are essential to safeguarding.

Whether you’re a security officer yourself or are part of a company that employs a security team, look at our top security tips for keeping these valuable team members safe.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Like law enforcement officers and first responders, security guards must always be aware of their surroundings. Keeping your eyes peeled for suspicious people, or anything else unusual will help to give you early warning of a potential safety issue.

As well as being vigilant when you’re out on patrol, it’s important to familiarize yourself with your work environment. Learn the layout of the building you patrol, memorize a map of the local area and take the time to check for possible escape routes.

Check High-Risk Areas Frequently

Security officers often find that parts of their patrol are at higher risk than others. For example, a local parking lot might be a crime hotspot, or an unguarded entrance could be a weak point for opportunist thieves. Checking these areas frequently can help deter antisocial and criminal behavior and help you to crack down quickly on any dangerous situations.

If you’ve just started and aren’t yet familiar with the high-risk areas on your patrol, ask those more experienced in the security industry for tips. Most seasoned professionals will have a good idea of the areas you need to watch out for. They may also be able to advise you on the most effective ways of patrolling them.

Observe Any Strange Activities

The more you know your route, the easier it will be to spot strange, suspicious and unusual activities. You might see someone walking around a restricted area, or a car parked in an odd place or left for an extended period of time. You may also notice someone watching a building, observing staff members or otherwise paying undue attention to something, or someone, under your care.

Being observant will help you safeguard your personal safety and the safety and security of the people and premises you look after.

Follow Your Security Protocols

Businesses put protocols in place to protect their security personnel and help officers cope with a range of emergency situations. Security companies should ensure all new recruits are trained in emergency procedures and protocols. Further training should occur regularly to keep staff fully updated on relevant protocols.

As well as security procedures, security guard training should cover first aid, protective clothing and security equipment. After all, the better informed and trained a security professional is, the easier it will be for them to do their job to the highest possible standard.

Utilize Technology to Enhance Security

Technology can be used to great effect when it comes to enhancing security guard safety. This type of technology comes in several different guises. For example, CCTV cameras can allow security personnel to monitor high-risk areas without leaving the safety of their workstation. Cameras also make it easier for security guards to keep an eye on all areas of a building or patrol area at once, allowing them to spot intruders and other potential dangers as soon as possible.

An alarm system can be installed across the area. A good quality alarm system will warn guards early of a possible emergency and automatically notify security services of a breach. This can make it easier for security officers to get the necessary backup and support.

When choosing safety devices for lone workers, one of the most popular options is the wireless panic button. Unlike CCTV cameras and alarm systems, panic buttons are worn by the officer, giving them protection wherever they are on the premises. If the security officer feels their safety is at risk, they can trigger the alarm instantly and silently. Notifications will then be sent to the appropriate authorities, allowing the officer to get help fast. Depending on the environment, security departments may opt for a panic button that contacts 911 when activated. This ensures a speedy response from emergency services.

A mobile phone can double up as a safety device. Security officers can use their phones to send regular messages to their supervisors letting them know everything is ok. If a scheduled message is missed, the supervisor will know something is wrong. You can also find many security apps online. These allow you to turn your phone into a rudimentary panic button. However, it’s important to remember that this only works when you have a signal, which can be an issue in remote areas.

Expect the Unexpected

One of the most important tips you’ll hear as a security officer is to expect the unexpected. Being prepared for every eventuality is a core part of the job, so make sure you train for a wide range of situations and emergencies.

Because you never know what might happen, it’s worth investing in high quality protective gear. You could wear protective gloves, high vis outerwear, body armor and even a bullet proof vest to help keep you safe when you’re at work. Talk to your employer to see if they provide protective wear.

Know Your Limitations

As a professional security officer, it’s important to know your limitations. Though you may want to go above and beyond to keep those in your care safe from harm, sometimes, you’ll need to pass the job on to specialist responders.

For example, if you see a suspicious package in your building’s lobby, it’s essential you call the police to deal with the situation. Likewise, if you see a large group of people behaving strangely, it may be advisable to call for backup rather than tackle them yourself.

Talk to your employer about the exact security measures you’re required to take. These measures may vary by site or shift, so ensure you get a full breakdown of the rules.

Keep Calm During an Incident

Staying calm during an incident is crucial for a number of reasons. Firstly, it will help you think clearly about the situations that’s unfolding. This can help you to make better decisions and obtain a better outcome. Secondly, staying calm can help to prevent you from getting carried away by the adrenaline rush.

Lastly, being calm can help to diffuse a situation. If you’re calm, you may find that the person or people you’re talking to begin relaxing. This can help to deescalate a potentially violent or dangerous incident.

Keeping security officers safe should be a top priority for security companies and their businesses. To learn more about protecting lone workers, and get more safety tips for all members of staff, take a look around or get in touch with a member of our team.

All businesses and institutions that require employees to work alone should carry out a full and comprehensive lone-worker risk assessment. Safety policies are important for lone workers as they make both the worker and their employer aware of the occupational health and safety hazards they face. Both workers and employers can then take steps to mitigate these risks and create a safer working environment.

A lone worker risk assessment should form part of a company’s lone worker policy. The document should outline the workplace hazards lone workers face, set out the business rules on working alone, and describe the safety procedures both employer and employee are required to follow to reduce the risks.

What Are the Risks of Lone Working?

The exact safety risks faced by lone workers will depend on the industry they’re employed in and on their role within the workplace. Common lone working risks include:

• Slips, trips, and falls
• Environmental hazards, such as fire and gas leaks
• Assault by a colleague, customer, or member of the public
• Medical emergency

These risks are all amplified when working alone. Customers, guests, or strangers may be more likely to attack someone working alone and, if an employee doesn’t receive first aid quickly following an incapacitating accident or medical emergency, the results could be much more serious.

How to Create a Lone Worker Risk Assessment

A lone worker risk assessment should cover all potential hazards faced by lone workers in an organization. As well as identifying hazards, the document should list the safety measures put in place to mitigate them. Risk assessment templates and risk assessment examples can be found on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website.

Identify the Hazards

The first step in creating a lone working risk assessment is hazard identification. Employer and employee should work together to identify the potential risks involved in a particular work activity or role. For example, employees working in high-risk areas like confined spaces, or with dangerous chemicals, will face different hazards to those working in retail or hospitality environments.

Determine Mitigation and Response Procedures

Determining mitigation and response procedures is an important part of creating a comprehensive risk assessment. Risks can often be reduced by employing relevant technologies. Staff members can use their phones to check in with a line manager at regular intervals and CCTV can be used to monitor lone workers during their shift.

Safety devices for lone workers can also help to improve lone worker safety. Wireless Bluetooth panic buttons allow employees to call for help silently and instantly if they feel their personal safety is at risk.

Putting response procedures in place will ensure staff know exactly what to do in case of an emergency. They can also save time, help to keep employees calm, and ensure help is summoned as quickly as possible.

Develop a Training Plan

Proper training is an integral part of creating a safe work environment. Safety training
should cover a company’s safety policies, emergency procedures, and incident reporting. If employees are required to use personal protective equipment (PPE), this should also be included in the training plan.

Employers should incorporate safety training into the orientation process for new employees. They should also create a schedule of top-up training sessions to ensure all staff members are well-versed in safety protocol.

Monitor and Document Incidents

Though prevention is the goal of any lone working policy or risk assessment, sometimes accidents and incidents happen. If something does go wrong in a workplace, it’s important that the event is fully documented. Even near misses should be monitored as this provides the employer with valuable information. As much detail as possible should be included in this documentation.

Review and Update Based on the Findings

It’s good practice to carry out regular audits of past incidents. Reviewing accidents that resulted in serious injuries or even fatalities will help to inform a company’s safety policy and allow them to update and improve it. This is especially important if the level of risk faced by lone workers changes for any reason, for example, because of recently diagnosed medical conditions, new equipment, or new working practices.

Lone Worker Risk Assessment Checklist

Running through a lone worker risk assessment checklist will help to ensure an employer has done as much as possible to protect their staff members. It can also help to identify hazards and fill in any information missing from the initial risk assessment.

The worker is trained to use safety equipment?

Providing a safe workplace is a legal requirement. A major part of this involves training staff on the correct use of safety equipment. Safety equipment is a broad term that can include everything from PPE and medical equipment to tech that controls the functionality of machines and processes. Staff need to know exactly how to use this equipment, especially if they’re working on their own.

Are there environmental hazards?

Environmental hazards can include:

• Dangerous chemicals
• Radiation
• Air pollution
• Pesticides
• Toxic waste
• Heavy metals
• Extreme heat or cold

Other environmental hazards may be present depending on the industry and location of the business. It may be possible to control the risk level of these hazards by issuing staff members with PPE or by installing alarms to monitor harmful substances.

Are there any dangerous situations that may occur?

Thinking about the dangerous situations that are most likely to occur can help businesses to be better prepared. For example, if there is a high risk of violence in a motel, hospital or bar, the employer could pre-empt a violent incident by hiring security personnel, issuing staff with panic buttons, or putting entry control measures in place.

If the most likely danger comes from mishandling of dangerous chemicals or misuse of equipment, extra training could reduce the chances of an accident or ill health.

Can lone workers communicate with others in case of an emergency?

If lone workers aren’t under the direct supervision of a manager, it’s important that they can communicate with others while at work. If this isn’t possible, the Occupation Safety and Health Administration recommend employers check in on lone workers visually or verbally at regular intervals throughout their shifts.

Are lone workers trained to document and report hazards and incidents?

Documenting and reporting workplace hazards and dangerous incidents is essential to building a detailed risk assessment. Because lone workers are on their own, they need to know exactly how to document any unsafe situations they come across.

Carrying out a thorough and comprehensive risk assessment is an important part of identifying hazards and developing safety procedures. Find out more, and learn how our panic buttons can protect lone workers across all industries, by taking a look around or getting in touch with a member of our team.

Author:  Peter Klebanoff, Vice President of Healthcare Sales

The Great Resignation is still reverberating two years on, creating havoc in the form of turnover and attrition in most industries. While healthcare and hospitality jobs are the frontline bellwethers of staffing shortages, just about every sector is experiencing challenges with its workforce in the wake of this unparalleled exodus. So why is this happening? Now that the pandemic has been declared over, what’s the mystery behind the continued shortages?

One Gallup poll states that 743 million or 23% of employees worldwide have experienced violence or harassment in their workplace. Meanwhile, over 2.6 million Americans were victims of nonfatal workplace injuries in 2021. Further, incivility has escalated in recent years, leading 45% of employees to want to quit after a customer has yelled or shown aggression toward them. These statistics suggest that the worker shortage may be traced to either fear of an unsafe work environment or direct experiences in them.

Between the pandemic and a meteoric rise in workplace violence and injuries, talented workers have left these unsafe workplaces and have chosen to find employers who value their safety.

Does My Job Put Me at Risk for Workplace Violence?

Sadly, workplace violence can happen anywhere and in any industry. With the rising mental health crisis, personal safety is becoming a flashpoint across a spectrum of careers. According to OSHA, those at an elevated risk of workplace violence are “workers who exchange money with the public, delivery drivers, healthcare professionals, public service workers, customer service agents, law enforcement personnel, and those who work alone or in small groups.”

Whether it’s safety precautions in a psychiatric unit, hotel, ambulance or restaurant, investing in the protection of employees shouldn’t be considered simply an investment in public optics. Rather, safety precautions should be viewed as an investment in the long-term financial success of your operation.

OSHA also indicates, “In most workplaces where risk factors can be identified, the risk of assault can be prevented or minimized if employers take appropriate precautions.” When employers put workplace violence and injury prevention measures in place in high-risk situations — whether in a poorly-lit stairwell of a health care facility, behind closed doors in a hotel or in a dangerous loading zone where workers are frequently injured — they can prevent these expensive events that lead to workers’ comp claims and high turnover.

Workers deserve to feel free from harm and there is a direct correlation between an employer’s profitability and their ability to make their employees feel safe — and be safe. As of January 2022, only 45% of workers are aware of their company’s safety plan.

Can Employers Save Money by Investing in Workplace Safety Measures?

There’s no question that finding good help is harder than ever — and it’s hurting the bottom line of many businesses. Not only are employees more expensive than ever, but the technology and recruitment fees to find qualified employees have also increased significantly. Further, employers need to position themselves as having a desirable place to work that places safety as a top priority in order to stay competitive.

The loss of an employee after an incidence of violence or an accident equates to exorbitant costs in replacing them. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) reported that, on average, it costs a company “Six to nine months of an employee’s salary to replace him or her. For an employee making $60,000 per year, that comes out to $30,000 – $45,000 in recruiting and training costs.”

When examining the money spent — and lost — on employee turnover, it’s easy to see that simply letting the problem continue as-is is not financially sustainable. The focus should be shifted to employee retention and staying competitive in the marketplace with workplace safety measures that appeal to the right candidates.

The question then becomes: How can employers attract new employees and keep current ones in their positions while making them feel like their safety concerns have been addressed?

Qualified and talented employees desire more from employers than just a paycheck — they want to have peace of mind and feel safe at work in an increasingly volatile world. Well-being is a one-of-a-kind ROI for employers who opt to install innovative security solutions to protect their people. The fear that something bad will happen while on the job that occupies the space in a worker’s mind can instead be replaced with a focus on performing their best. Meanwhile, saving money by retaining existing workers and attracting skilled employees with technology that addresses security issues will mitigate staffing shortages and protect profitability.

Thankfully, technology can help solve this dilemma and save money on workers’ comp claims, which saves on future insurance premiums. Technology-based security solutions can also save in knowledge transfer between employees, improve company culture, reduce the likelihood of unionization and the loss of employee productivity, and help prevent potential lawsuits and legal fees. In short, all of this can lead to the promotion of greater organizational profitability.

Are Panic Buttons Effective in Preventing Workplace Violence or Quickly Addressing Dangerous Situations?

Attempts to de-escalate potentially violent situations and adding protocols to prevent accidents only go so far. In addition, conflict resolution training, though effective in many instances, does not always work. When an incident begins to unfold, workers need a wearable solution that doesn’t alert their assailant and allows their distress to be immediately visible even when they’re out of sight from co-workers.

Wearable “screamer” panic buttons are readily available on the marketplace but they’re not all created equally. These screamer panic buttons can further escalate conflicts or simply not even be heard in an industrial setting where someone is being harassed or injured.

While there are some panic buttons that don’t create a sound, most of them typically rely on networks that lack coverage in dead zones like stairwells, storage closets and exterior portions of the facility, so even though they’re silent, the signal may not reach security in time to intervene. Employers also need to consider the safety of their customers and guests and how they can better serve their experience — and safety is a top-of-mind priority.

To change the narrative, employers need a wearable, silent panic button solution that doesn’t alert attackers and doesn’t rely on spotty network coverage. They need one that quickly calls for proactive or reactive help from any place within a building, that’s easily implemented and that is free from dead zones.

The time has come for employees to be free from fear while doing their job. That’s why we created a breakthrough solution that helps permanently address the workplace violence and injury crisis.

Want to discover how our wearable, affordable, silent panic button solution will help you lower workers’ comp claims and boost profitability while keeping your people safe? Request a Demo.

Authored by: Peter Klebanoff, former police officer.

Thinking about panic buttons for your property?

Ask yourself: Why do banks use silent alarms?

Answer: So no one gets killed.

If you are evaluating silent vs. audible alarms, consider this: a human’s Acute Stress Response, better known as ‘the fight-or-flight instinct’, is ingrained in us all and directs how we respond to significant stress. If you are robbing a bank, you are probably under stress. If you suddenly hear an alarm or siren, your stress becomes acute and your behavior unpredictable, and possibly dangerous. The security experts who advise banks know this and have determined it’s better to quietly trigger an alarm than to exacerbate the situation.

Yes, we all handle stress a little differently, but let’s face it, the person holding up a bank is likely to exhibit unpredictable behavior. The same idea goes for someone assaulting an employee. A loud siren-like noise may trigger fight-or-flight, and it can only be heard a few rooms away.

Most attackers don’t expect serious opposition when they are challenged. They panic and react, and often, that creates an opportunity for bad outcomes, especially if there is nowhere to run. Maybe not 100% of the time, but often enough that it’s not worth the risk.

I used to be a police officer but I now sell this stuff so you are wary of my advice. How about an expert opinion?

The National Health Service of the United Kingdom, in their Crime Science Journal, reports: “Simple audible alarm devices are not based on the expectation that they will produce assistance from third parties. Rather, they are primarily intended to create a distraction to allow the worker time to get away from a potentially violent situation….. Some experts advise personal audible alarms are more suitable for outdoor use due to the potential risk of escalating a situation indoors and their use now is more limited. It has been suggested that alarm systems that rely on the use of whistles or screams are ineffective and dangerous…” Again, not a hotel, a health system, or for lone workers, but are they really that different with respect to assailant behavior?

The same principle applies to voice systems. “Alexa, we’re being attacked, call the cops” is not an option for banks, nor is it for a worker speaking into a phone, walkie-talkie, or other device for the same reasons, personal audible alarms are problematic. You do not want your staff member who is already in a compromised position to escalate the tension by ‘threatening’ their assailant. We wrote more about this in our “Screamers vs Panic Buttons” post.

Look, your workplace isn’t a bank, and something is better than nothing. Screamers might provide some degree of protection, or at least enough shock value to give your employee time to run away, but if you are going to put in the effort to protect your staff, you want to seriously consider the advantages of a discreet device that can be subtlety activated without raising tensions. If you are doing it, you may as well do it right. You want a solution that can quickly report the exact location of the incident, and track the employee in real-time as they move or flee.

If you are looking for a wireless panic button technology designed to address the nuances of safety, you are in the right place. The solution we’ve built is designed to be self-healing, offer redundancies, and cover dead spots – because we don’t want to leave anything to chance for you or your staff. You may as well do it right and get one that does the job.

Maintaining a safe and secure workplace benefits everyone. Employees are likely to be happier and more productive when they’re confident their physical security is taken care of. Customers and clients will have more trust in your business if your premises are protected, and it will be easier for you to keep an eye on your stock, staff, and workplace if proper security procedures are in place.

The exact security measures you’ll need to take will depend on a number of factors. These include your location, the size of your premises, and the nature of your business. Implementing procedures now will help you protect your staff and workplace as soon as possible.

Workplace Security Explained

Workplace security is a broad term that covers everything from access control to violence prevention and health and safety. In fact, it includes any potential threats that could impact on your workforce, customers, clients, stock, digital files or physical premises.

Common examples of workplace security include:

• Preventing violence or threatening behavior in the workplace
• Controlling who enters and exits the premises
• Managing stock to prevent thefts
• Minimizing risk to employees from trips, slips, falls, and other hazards
• Implementing cybersecurity measures to protect digital data
• Installing alarm systems to alert employees to fire, intruders, or other emergencies

The best and most effective way of improving workplace safety is to introduce a set of procedures for all staff to follow. For example, you could require all staff to use key cards to access the building, install an alarm system to protect the premises outside of normal working hours or train employees on how to properly deal with sensitive information.

The Importance of Workplace Security

Workplace security is important for a variety of reasons, and all businesses operating in the US have a legal duty of care to keep employees as safe as possible. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ‘Employers have the responsibility to provide a safe and healthful workplace that is free from serious recognized hazards’. OSHA has developed guidelines to help employers meet this requirement and improve workplace safety procedures across the country.

As well as being a legal obligation, creating a secure work environment is important because it improves employee morale, increases productivity, and prevents injuries and incidents in the workplace. If employees feel safe and happy, they’re less likely to quit. Reducing staff turnover can help to boost your bottom line. What’s more, security breaches, both physical and digital, can cause a lot of disruption and cost a lot of money. Addressing these security issues before they cause serious problems will help you prevent financial losses and keep your business running smoothly.

Keeping Your Workplace Safe and Secure

Creating and implementing a comprehensive security plan is the best way to improve employee safety and keep your premises secure. You’ll need to carry out a full risk assessment before creating your company security policies. This will help you identify the specific security threats affecting your business and your employees. Introducing regular training programs will help you to realize your workplace security plan as quickly and as effectively as possible. While many of the steps you take will be particular to your premises, there are some measures that can be universally applied to almost all workplaces. These include:

Implement a Badge System

A badge system is a simple and effective way of controlling who has physical access to the premises. In a badge system, employees – and sometimes visitors – are required to use an ID card, key card, or phone to gain access to secure areas. This type of security system can be implemented in a number of ways. You could use it as a general way of controlling who enters the building, or make it more specific by allocating different badges to different floors, wards, or work areas. Access can either be controlled by security guards or by a digital entry system. Introducing this type of security procedure is an easy way of ensuring that only authorized personnel are on your premises. It’s also a good way of keeping out any individuals you know to be violent, aggressive, or otherwise unwelcome.

Provide Appropriate Tools to Employees

If you’re looking at ways to improve cybersecurity, you’ll probably need to invest in a range of specialist tools and equipment. These tools, like encryption software, VPNs, and anti-virus software, will help to protect your online files and sensitive information. Specialist security training may be required to ensure staff know how to use them properly.

Record All Visitors

This is another simple but important workplace security procedure. If you have a log of everyone who enters and leaves the building, you’ll know exactly how many people are on the premises at any one time. This information can be crucial in case of fires, floods, gas leaks, earthquakes or other manmade or natural disasters as it can aid any rescue attempts and help you keep track of your employees. Recording all visitors to your building is also useful when it comes to reducing thefts and workplace violence. Many people will be deterred from committing violent or criminal acts if they know their name has been logged. If they do become aggressive or break the law when they’re on-site, identifying them should be easy.

Install Video Surveillance

Installing video surveillance on your premises will help you to monitor who comes in and out and act quickly if there’s a medical emergency, accident, theft, or instance of workplace violence. Place security cameras in areas like stairwells that are difficult for office security personnel to monitor. If you store sensitive information in your workplace, it may also be a good idea to point cameras at your front desk, file cabinets, and computers. As well as being a deterrent, a video surveillance system can help you to identify and catch culprits if an incident occurs. The footage can also be used as evidence in the event of an arrest or prosecution.

Maintain Physical Security

High-tech solutions like access control systems, CCTV, and digital software can help to keep your employees and premises safe. But it’s often physical security that makes the biggest difference when it comes to preventing unwanted visitors. In fact, taking stock of all physical access points is an important part of any security audit. Securing doors, windows and other access points will help to keep your premises safe. Limiting access to one main entrance will further help you control who comes in and out. Consider installing an alarm system to alert you if any doors or windows are opened without permission.

Provide Panic Button Solutions

If a visitor, guest, patient, customer, or employee does become violent, or if there’s a slip and fall, accident, or other type of emergency, it’s important that your staff members can get help as quickly as possible. Panic buttons are portable personal alarms that can be triggered in case of emergency. They provide security personnel with the user’s exact location, allowing help to reach them fast. Providing panic buttons to workers will ensure any injured customers or staff members receive first aid quickly. They can also help to prevent assaults and allow staff to summon backup if they feel threatened. If providing adequate staff support isn’t possible, there are also solutions that alert 911 when activated.

Best-Practices for Ensuring a Safe and Secure Workplace

Often, the most challenging places to keep safe are those that the public has the right to access, like hospitals and healthcare centers. There are many procedures hospitals and healthcare centers can implement in order to improve workplace safety These include:

• Installing video surveillance
• Providing panic buttons
• Improving physical security
• Issuing ID cards to staff members
• Following Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards

You can identify other effective ways of keeping employees safe by carrying out a risk assessment of your premises. Talking to staff about security concerns is another good way of pinpointing important safety issues.

Investing in a comprehensive security program will help to protect staff, boost employee morale, minimize disruption, and help your business’s bottom line. Learn more about the hidden costs of workplace violence on business and find out how panic buttons can help protect workforces of all sizes by taking a look around or getting in touch with a member of the ROAR team today. Request a Demo.