Most workplace safety plans outline procedures for fire drills, emergency evacuations, and handling hazardous materials. But in today’s world, a crucial element often gets overlooked: active shooter preparedness.

The unfortunate reality is that active shooter situations are a growing threat, and according to the Department of Justice, over half of these attacks occur in workplaces (NIJ 2023). These statistics are sobering, and they highlight the critical need for a comprehensive workplace safety program that includes active shooter training.

Let’s explore the importance of active shooter and workplace violence safety training, and how it can empower your employees to respond effectively in the event of an emergency. We’ll delve into the benefits of training, best practices for implementation, and resources available to help you get started. By prioritizing active shooter preparedness, you can create a safer work environment for all your employees.

Shockingly, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 524 workers were killed as a result of homicide in 2022 – that’s 1.4 workers each day (BLS 2023).

We’ve all seen the horrifying news coverage: shootings at office buildings, retail stores, movie theaters, and banks.

Recent tragedies, such as at Sparetime Recreation and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant in Maine (18 killed) or the Dollar General in Florida (3 killed), serve as stark reminders that violence can strike anywhere, even seemingly safe work environments.

Employers have a significant responsibility to ensure the safety of both their employees and customers. This stems from a duty of care, meaning they have a legal and ethical obligation to provide a reasonably safe environment. For employees, this includes minimizing risks of workplace injuries and illnesses. For customers, it means creating a space free from hazards and dangers.

Ultimately, prioritizing safety fosters a positive work environment for employees and builds trust with customers, leading to a more successful business.

As we get caught up in the day-to-day grind, it’s easy to let our guard down at work. However, these statistics and real-life examples underline the importance of staying vigilant.

Being situationally aware and having a plan in place could be the difference between life and death during an emergency.

As active shooter attacks continue to rise, training for these types of threats has become a vital part of many workplaces’ safety protocols. While the focus is naturally on surviving a violent attack, the benefits of this training extend far beyond that. The skills and mindset learned during active shooter training contribute to a broader culture of safety in your workplace, reducing injuries from a variety of potential incidents.

In a 2021 report, the Department of Homeland Security acknowledged the importance of active shooter safety training for the public. “Training is one of the best activities to help prepare personnel to react quickly and effectively in emergency situations” and that awareness campaigns “help ensure a much higher chance of reacting quickly and surviving an incident.” (DHS 2021)

A core component of active shooter training is developing situational awareness. This involves being cognizant of your surroundings and recognizing potential threats.

This heightened awareness translates perfectly to everyday safety. Employees trained to identify suspicious activity or hazards in the workplace are more likely to spot and avoid dangers before they become accidents.

Active shooter safety training equips employees to make critical decisions in a high-stress environment. They learn to assess the situation, weigh their options, and take decisive action – all under immense pressure.

These same skills are invaluable in everyday situations where quick thinking can prevent accidents. From responding to a slip-and-fall hazard to identifying a potential fire risk, active shooter training instills a calmness under pressure that can lead to better decision-making across the board.

Active shooter training sends a clear message that your workplace prioritizes the safety and well-being of its employees. This focus on proactive safety measures fosters a culture of risk awareness and prevention.

Employees who feel empowered to identify and report safety concerns are more likely to do so, creating a safer work environment for everyone.

While training is crucial, it should be part of a comprehensive workplace safety program. Regular safety inspections, clear protocols for reporting hazards, and easily accessible safety equipment all work in conjunction with active shooter training to create a layered defense against accidents and violence.

Active shooter training may seem like a response to a specific threat, but the skills it imparts are valuable for overall workplace safety. By fostering situational awareness, critical decision-making, and a culture of safety, active shooter training can play a significant role in reducing accidents and keeping your employees safe – every single day.

Active shooter preparation was the top concern cited by 76% of corporate security and emergency preparedness leaders (Everbridge 2018). That’s where workplace violence / active shooter training comes in. Effective training equips employees with the knowledge, mindset, and skills they need to:

• Recognize warning signs: Training helps identify potential threats and escalating situations before they turn violent.
• Develop a plan: Knowing what to do in an active shooter scenario or other violent situations is vital. Training provides clear steps for evacuation, sheltering in place, and responding to suspicious behavior.
• Stay calm under pressure: Reacting calmly and decisively in a crisis can save lives. Training helps employees manage their emotions and make sound decisions in the face of danger.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, one in four attacks analyzed resulted in a civil suit – and “two-thirds then of all those civil suits cited negligence on the facilities’ behalf for either failing to provide adequate security or for a facility manager failing to act upon information they had received about an individual posing a potential threat.” (DHS 2019)

Safety training in the workplace can act as a shield to mitigate lawsuits and financial burdens.

By providing comprehensive training, employers can demonstrate they took reasonable steps to prevent man-made disasters. Documented training programs become evidence that employees were equipped with the knowledge and skills to work safely. This can significantly weaken a negligence claim, where an injured employee might argue the company failed to provide proper training. In turn, this reduces the likelihood of costly litigation and hefty settlements, protecting the company’s bottom line.

Workplace violence training isn’t just about complying with regulations; it’s about creating a safer work environment for everyone. By empowering employees with knowledge and skills, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of violence and its devastating consequences.

Selecting the right workplace violence training provider is crucial. After all, you’re entrusting them with the safety and well-being of your employees. Here are key factors to consider:

• Curriculum Strength: Look for a program based on current research and best practices. Does the training offer clear guidance on prevention, recognition, response, and reporting?
• Expert Instructors: The quality of your instructor makes a huge difference. Seek instructors with extensive experience in workplace violence / active shooter prevention and response.
• Engagement is Key: Skip the generic online modules. Effective safety training is interactive and engaging. Look for providers who offer in-person workshops with strong elements of discussion, scenario-based learning, and tabletop exercises. This allows employees to actively participate and retain information better.
• Customization Options: Does the provider offer training tailored to your specific workplace environment and industry? For example, a healthcare facility may have different needs than a retail store.

By prioritizing these factors, you can ensure your employees receive high-quality, effective training that truly prepares them to stay safe in the workplace.

Equip your employees with the best possible chance to survive an active shooter situation. First 30 Group’s training program goes beyond theory.

Our edge? Real-world experience.

Our curriculum, developed by law enforcement experts and survivors of attacks such as the Beltway Sniper attacks, Washington Navy Yard, Sutherland Springs Baptist Church, and San Bernardino, reflects the realities these events revealed. Instructors are subject-matter experts, ensuring the training is grounded in the latest tactics and best practices.

This isn’t theory – it’s about giving your employees the tools they need to mitigate the loss of life.

Furthermore, First 30 Group’s commitment to research is unparalleled. Their in-depth analysis of hundreds of attacks and survivor interviews provides invaluable insights that directly translate into actionable training for your employees. By choosing First 30 Group, you’re giving your team the knowledge and confidence they need to respond effectively in the critical first 30 minutes of an active shooter workplace violence event.

Don’t wait for tragedy to strike. Advocate for workplace violence training in your organization. It’s an investment in the safety and well-being of your most valuable asset – your employees.

References

• BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics). 2023. National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in 2022
• DHS (Department of Homeland Security). 2019. Active Shooter Emergency Action Plan 
• DHS (Department of Homeland Security). 2021. Planning and Response to an Active Shooter
• Everbridge. 2018. Active Shooter Preparedness Survey
• NIJ (National Institute of Justice). 2023. Special Report: Public Mass Shootings Research

Greg Pass is the Director of Training and Research at First 30 Group, a leader in Active Shooter Safety Training. He is a retired police lieutenant from the Washington, D.C. National Capital Region with an extensive background in active shooter training and response. He also serves on the board of directors for the VTV Family Outreach Foundation, a nonprofit organization committed to assisting survivors of mass attacks across the country.