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At some point during the course of their careers, most professionals will be privy to a colleague losing their job. In most cases, neither party has to worry about the scenario escalating — people understand terminations are always possible. But in rare cases, there is cause for concern that violence could erupt and escalate in the workplace, particularly as the implementation of return-to-work mandates has been associated with a rise in employee backlash and incidents of physical and workplace violence.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, acts of violence were the third leading cause of fatal occupational injuries in the United States in 2022, with more than two million people experiencing some form of workplace violence. This is yet another proof point that security directors must stay cognizant of how high-risk separations and workplace violence can proliferate. A proactive approach to identifying and mitigating workplace violence is essential, and security leaders can lean into available technology that can be complemented with human expertise to help navigate these challenges.
Leveraging Technology to Advance Security
Virtual reality has evolved to become a powerful tool for security planning, allowing organizations to input repeatable events into their training and enabling employees to perfect their skills ahead of emergencies. For example, an organization might upload floor plans into their workplace violence training, allowing employees to know their options for exit should an emergency evacuation arise.
Of course, artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a role in how organizations use technology to enhance security. AI paves a path to predict possible scenarios and take preventive measures before a threat materializes.
There are many ways AI and technology is supporting workplace safety and the security function:
- Predictive Analytics: AI is best used to predict potential security threats before they happen by analyzing historical data and looking for patterns that might not be visible to the human eye.
- Natural Language Processing (NLP): By using NLP alongside AI, security directors can monitor and analyze communications across various platforms as they happen to detect threats or aggressive messaging that might turn into actual workplace violence.
- Computer Vision: AI can also be trained to analyze security footage in real-time to detect unusual behavior or known criminals who might pose a threat to the location.
Each of these tactics is preventative in nature, giving security leaders a look into the future using advanced tools and systems.
Pinkerton’s Human Expertise + Technology = A Secure Partnership
When coupled with robust corporate threat assessment and threat management programs, an integrated approach to curbing workplace violence can prepare organizations to deal with the worst. Adopting proven use cases will best prepare organizations for threats:
Real-Time Incident Reporting & Communication Platforms. Security directors can leverage both mobile applications and desktop platforms to gain immediate, real-time insights into workplace incidents, enabling them to promptly identify and respond to any suspicious activities that require their attention. Pinkerton will integrate these platforms with incident response planning and services so the security director can deploy security personnel at a moment’s notice.
Surveillance & Monitoring Systems. Artificial intelligence will allow security directors to monitor for signs of aggression or unauthorized access that might escape a human’s attention. Pinkerton will analyze the data being collected and respond immediately to identified threats.
Social Media & Online Monitoring. It’s not uncommon to see threats emerge from social media but monitoring it alone can be overwhelming. Pinkerton’s intelligence services monitor and investigate the credibility of online threats and share expertise on whether to act.
Access Control & Identity Verification. Biometrics is another tool that can be used to prevent workplace violence by allowing security directors to manage entry points and sensitive areas. Pinkerton will enforce these entry points and respond to breaches with armed protection.
Training Simulations & Preparedness. Pinkerton clients use augmented reality and virtual reality security training to ensure emergency preparedness and response is locked in. We incorporate proprietary training and awareness programs so employees are fully prepared for any situation that might arise.
Post-Incident Analysis & Learning. If you don’t learn your lesson after an incident, you are inviting a repeat. Pinkerton’s consultants use AI-driven tools to refine policies and procedures that can be expanded and improved to prevent another incident.
By combining available technology with proven security strategies, organizations can better protect their people, places, and assets. And working with a trusted security partner like Pinkerton means that business leaders are in the best possible position to prepare for threats to their operations.
