Protecting Yourself at Work

Cheryl S SPHR

Does anyone have a good set of tips for HR folks (or employees for that matter) who are meeting with someone who may be violent or threatening? I am looking for something that would give tips like -- don't let the person sit between you and the door, make sure a co-worker knows where you are, don't wear a necktie, etc. I am not looking for tips on how to have the conversation, but more about physical security.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

NaeNae55

I don't have a set of tips, but I would recommend that you have security right there. If you don't have private security, then call the police and explain your situation. They will often drop by and stay while you get through an unpleasant conversation.

Hope someone else out there has some better suggestions.

Good luck!

Nae

Cheryl S SPHR

Thanks for the advice. I am hoping to find material to use in a training presentation.

Dutch2

Nae has good advice.... You should always have someone else with you when you know the situation may turn violent.

LarryC

You may be able to locate a private security firm to "hang around". I did once when we fired an employee who had been acquited of murdering his wife. He used to joke that the police "never looked in the freezer". I never trusted him.

drehil

LarryC, I see you also live in the Land of 10,000 Ways to Cover up a Murder.....that's great!!!

HRQ

I am floored that anyone would joke about the murder of his wife, regardless of whether or not he did the deed himself.

I wouldn't have trusted him either.

marc

A couple of years ago, we had a presentation from the county sheriffs office about this very topic.

Perhaps a phone call to them would get you into one of their community outreach programs designed for this type of discussion. Police forces also often have this service, as does the AG's office and the Highway Patrol.

All of these sources have the added benefit of being free. You may have to donate to the policemans benevolent fund or some such tho.