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How Can Employers Prepare For An Active Shooter In The Workplace?

How Can Employers Prepare For An Active Shooter In The Workplace?
by D. Albert Brannen

Recent workplace shooting incidents across the country have caused many employers to realize that they need a contingency plan in case they have an active shooter situation at their work site.

Potential Liability

To protect your workforce and avoid liability under various laws, you should work with your management or security advisers to identify and develop an appropriate workplace critical incident protocol or plan.
 
First, you must consider what laws and government agencies may be at play in the case of a workplace shooting, as well as what has been expected of employers in the past.

One government agency sure to get involved if there is an active shooter situation in your workplace is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA has the ability to fine employers if reasonable steps to maintain a safe workplace are not taken. What the agency considers "reasonable" is subjective and will depend on the specifics of each case.

Certain industries have greater liability exposure under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, including late-night retailers, liquor stores, banks, hospitals and home healthcare workers. These industries are expected to have a plan.

If your company is required to have an emergency action plan, make sure it addresses active shooter situations.

Read full article on MultiBriefs.