TIPS FOR SAFETY IN THE WORKPLACE

The recent national tragedy in Aurora, Colorado rattled our nation. One person’s destructive act could be costly to many, workers or bystanders alike. 

In this case, the Aurora incident provoked a copycat threat. A Maryland man threatened to shoot up his workplace. Fox News explained that Neil Prescott, 28, was in process of being fired when he allegedly and sarcastically said, “I’m a joker and I’m gonna load my guns and blow everybody up.

Would anyone find his statement humorous?

Words like assassinations, bombings, crashes and hurricanes all bring national tragedies to mind. Research on the Web also shows a number of workplace tragedies. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports annual work-related statistics on homicides that occur mostly to men, mostly from robberies, and mostly in the retail trade. Risks vary according to occupations; so, a detective would be at greater risk than an assembly worker.

Should you be concerned? 

More personal than national tragedies occur at workplaces. But, yes, it is always wise to be cautious and aware. Here are nine tips in case tragedy strikes.

• Make sure people are safe.
• Satisfy people’s need to process a tragedy so they may calm.
• Make management staff available.
• Allow people to gather and talk.
• Assess personal involvement of and impact to employees.
• Provide access to information as soon as it is available.
• Give people something helpful to do.
• Participate in a grief counseling program.
• Be prepared; have a plan for fire, tornadoes, hurricanes or other disasters.

Don’t allow concern over workplace safety to stop your job search. We maintain excellent relationships with our clients and welcome your questions.

If you are a job-seeker who has been patiently waiting for the right opportunity to become available, check out the open positions with Time Staffing, Inc. Register now. We’re looking forward to helping you find your best job ever!