How do I keep my staff safe during periods of protest, riot or other unrest?

In today’s unpredictable world, businesses must be prepared for anything, including civil unrest. While it can be an uncomfortable topic, ensuring the safety of your team and the smooth running of your operation is essential.

This guide aims to walk you through all the practical steps you can take to protect your workforce during times of turmoil. From keeping your team safe to handling unexpected closures, we’ve got you covered with essential strategies and expert advice.

How do I keep my employees safe?

Your number one priority during unrest will be ensuring the safety of your staff. Here are several ways in which you can help protect your employees:

Risk Assessments

The first step is to conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify the potential hazards to your team and put effective control measures in place.

Evaluate the likelihood of unrest affecting your work premises, identify vulnerable areas on the property, and assess the specific risks faced by employees.

Conducting your own risk assessments can be, dare we say it—a little risky! So, consider using risk management software with built-in templates so you can make sure you’re prepared for the unpredictable and fast-moving nature of the situation.

Security Measures

Putting security measures like CCTV and alarm systems in place can help you monitor and quickly respond to any incidents. If necessary, consider hiring trained security personnel to handle tense situations to ensure your team’s safety.

Training

Equipping your team with the skills to remain safe during times of unrest is essential. Providing training on de-escalation techniques can help them defuse potentially violent situations or avoid them altogether. Ensure all your staff are familiar with emergency procedures and evacuation plans, so they know exactly what to do in case of an emergency.

Be flexible

In areas most affected by unrest, employees may be concerned about their safety when commuting. Business owners should consider tools to enable remote work and be flexible with start and finish times to ensure no one is left alone or working in potentially dangerous areas, especially if the business could be a target for violence. Make sure you refresh yourself on your department's lone working policy.

Pay mind to vulnerable employees

Unfortunately, during civil unrest, certain groups may be targeted more than others. Protect these employees by enforcing inclusive policies against discrimination and providing support resources, such as counselling.

Communication

Maintain open communication with your team. Keep staff informed about the situation and safety measures. Use emails, messaging apps, or direct conversations to provide timely updates and instructions. Be sympathetic in your approach.

Incident reporting

The final step is keeping a detailed record of any incidents. Use incident reporting software to log and analyse incidents, helping you identify patterns, gaps, and improve your safety measures. Review incident reports to address any recurring issues and enhance your safety measures.

What happens if one of my employees is involved in the unrest?

When an employee is directly involved in a period of unrest, whether through social media posts inciting violence, making discriminatory comments, or captured directly participating in it, employers have to approach the topic very carefully.

Gather all relevant info

Make sure you have all the information available before acting. Avoid knee-jerk reactions, and consider the nature of the employee’s behaviour, their role, and the impact on your reputation.

Social media policy

Set clear expectations for social media in the workplace that outlines acceptable conduct and the consequences of breaking the rules.

Conducting investigations

If an employee’s behaviour falls below standard, conduct a disciplinary investigation. In the event an employee is arrested, do not assume guilt until they are charged, as it can make the situation worse

For more information on this topic, try asking Bright Brainbox: ‘What should I do if my employee has been arrested?’

Whilst, as an employer, you can't prevent civil unrest and factors outside of the workplace affecting your employees, you can take measures to help them avoid and minimise the effects it has on their work and day-to-day experience.