Date: April 13, 2018
WORKPLACE SAFETY
By: Bill King, Charlotte Branch Manager
It is important to implement systems to ensure your staff’s safety in the workplace. This includes procedures for staff working early or leaving late and for staff working at night, alone or in isolation, who are exposed to a higher safety risk. Here are some tips that might assist in your safety plan.
Before Entering the Workplace
*Park in a populated, well-lit area as close as possible to your workplace.
*Look for anyone loitering in the vicinity.
*Check for signs of forced entry attempts. If you’re unsure that your workplace is safe, contact security immediately. Do not enter the premises.
Before Leaving the Workplace
*Check that all windows and doors are securely locked before leaving and closing the workplace. In the morning, check them again and see if anything is missing.
*Advise someone that you are working late. Let them know what time to expect you to be home.
*Take a note of anyone loitering outside the workplace, if suspicious, notify security immediately.
Personal Safety Awareness Tips
*Do not walk alone. Instead walk in groups with co-workers or call security for an escort.
*Convey a sense of confidence and do not present yourself as timid or lost while walking.
*Dress appropriately, wear shoes that you can run in, if necessary.
*Do not display your valuables such as watches and jewelry in plain view. For example, if you wear a diamond ring, turn the stone inward towards the palm of your hand while walking.
*Always be alert to your surroundings. Look around and be observant and do not become distracted by telephone conversations, window shopping, etc.
*Walk in well-lit and high traffic areas where you can both see and be easily seen.
*Use sidewalks and stay near the street away from dark building entryways.
*Avoid shortcuts through alleys and wooded areas.
*Have a cell phone and keep it readily available such as in your hand (but again, don’t allow yourself to become distracted by texting, checking Facebook, etc.) or in a pocket.
*Immediately report all suspicious activities to security.
*Whether you are driving or walking, you should always be cognizant of where you are so that if you have to call the police or other authorities for assistance you can quickly provide accurate information as to your location.
*If you are being followed by someone on foot, immediately cross the street and proceed to a location where there are likely to be other people such as into a business.
*If you are driving in a car and think you are being followed, immediately proceed to the nearest police station, fire state or to a well-lit, high traffic area such as a convenient store or gas station where you can blow your horn to get the attention of others in the area.
*When going to your vehicle always have your keys ready in your hand.
*As you approach your vehicle in a parking lot, glance underneath and around your vehicle while still some distance away to determine whether anyone is luring around your car and if so, do not continue to proceed to your vehicle, but instead seek help.
*Above all else, always trust your instincts, they are usually correct. So if something doesn’t seem right, remove yourself from the situation immediately.
*If you do become a victim of a crime, promptly report it to the appropriate law enforcement authorities and security as soon as it is safe to do so.
Remember that personal safety and security is everyone’s responsibility.
