Security is a top priority to most business owners, and, unfortunately, in this day and age, security involves being prepared for active threats. According to the National Safety Council, nearly 2 million U.S. workers will become victims of workplace violence each year. With the constant coverage of active shooters in the news, many employers are beginning to emphasize the importance of being prepared for this type of threat. So, does every business need active shooter training? We’ve broken down the importance of active threat plans, the benefits of active shooter training, and other security measures that can protect against active threats to help you make an informed decision.

Developing an Active Threat Plan

One of the most important things you can do to protect your business is to develop a comprehensive plan for active threats. Knowing how to react and where to go during an active threat is the best way to minimize damage and keep your employees safe. When you enlist in the help of a private security company, they can help you develop this plan, considering your unique needs and property layout for maximum protection. In addition to developing the plan, active shooter training will ensure that all employees are well aware of plans and protocol to keep them safe and ensure they know what to do during an emergency.

Benefits of Active Shooter Training

Improving Workplace Safety

The biggest advantage to active shooter training for your business is to improve the overall safety of your workplace. When employees are properly trained to respond to active threats, they will be able to react to the situation in a safe and secure manner. Additionally, ensuring that each and every employee is well-informed about safe areas, escape routes, and proper protocol will keep your employees safe during an active threat. Proper training for an active threat is the best way to ensure safety when a threat occurs.

Peace of Mind

In addition to improving safety, active shooter training will give peace of mind to you and your employees that everyone is prepared for an active threat. Without proper training, your employees might worry what they would do in that situation, causing anxiety and lower employee morale. However, when your employees are properly equipped for the situation, they will have peace of mind and confidence that they are prepared. Employers will also have peace of mind that their entire workplace is prepared for any active threats.

Lower Liability

Another advantage to active shooter training is the lowered liability during an active threat. Although the safety of employees is employer’s top priority during an active threat, you will also have to deal with the aftermath if an incident occurs. For this reason, active shooter training is essential to limit your liability during an incident. If employees are properly trained to respond to an active threat, not only will they be safer in the moment, but it will also limit employers’ liability because employees were properly trained. Although safety and security are the most important consideration during an active threat, active shooter training has other advantage such as limiting liability for employers.

Other Security Methods for Active Threats

Active shooter training is a very valuable tool to protect your employees and your workplace from active threats. However, there are other methods that can also help protect your workplace. Some of these security measures include:

Security Officers

One of the best ways to minimize threats to your workplace is to hire security officers. Their presence will deter any potential attackers out of fear of getting caught. In addition to deterring threats, trained security officers will be able to respond to the situation quickly and appropriately. If your workplace experiences an active shooter, security officers will be able to apprehend the shooter quickly and keep everyone safe.

Surveillance Systems

Installing security cameras and a surveillance system will help you monitor any potential threats. A trained professional can operate the system and watch for any suspicious activity or individuals. Having a surveillance system can help you catch a potential threat before an incident occurs. Surveillance systems are an effective tool in assessing threats and reacting before there is an issue.

Access Control Systems

Access control is an effective way to keep intruders out of your workplace. Keycard or coded entry will allow you to decide who has access to the building. You can provide employees with access at all times or only certain times of day. Access control systems have the ability to lock doors behind each individual that enters, ensuring that they are the only one who gets inside. You can also quickly lock down the building and cut off all access in the event of a potential threat. Access control systems will ensure that no suspicious personnel will enter the building.

United Security Incorporated | Active Shooter Training 

For the past 27 years, USI has created safe, secure environments for commercial and government employees and customers by investing in our people, innovation and relationships. We offer various security services including security officer staffing, surveillance system and access control system installation, security risk assessments, and security training services including Active Shooter Training. Whatever your business’s security needs, we’re here to help!