Five ways to improve workplace violence prevention efforts
Workplace violence in healthcare settings remains a serious concern that affects the safety of patients, staff and visitors. Traditional security measures such as surveillance cameras and security personnel are essential but aren’t always sufficient to prevent incidents before they escalate.
Workplace violence prevention programs should be tailored based on your healthcare organization’s specific risks, population and culture of safety. By incorporating advanced strategies such as community-based security assessments, real-time risk identification and cutting-edge technology, facilities can:
- Reduce incidents of violence and improve patient and staff safety
- Minimize legal and financial risks associated with workplace violence claims
- Foster a culture of safety and security that enhances overall healthcare delivery
As threats continue to evolve, so must healthcare security strategies. Implementing data-driven, patient-focused and technologically advanced solutions is key to preventing workplace violence before it happens. Here are five approaches that healthcare facilities can implement to enhance workplace violence prevention efforts.
1. Security training for staff
A well-trained staff is a healthcare facility’s first and most effective line of defense against workplace violence. Ongoing, scenario-based training programs empower employees with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent, respond to and mitigate security threats. Effective security training should be comprehensive, role specific and continuously updated to address evolving risks. Key training components include:
- De-escalation and non-violent crisis intervention training to equip staff with proven techniques for defusing tense situations and managing aggressive behavior
- Trauma-Informed Care training to help staff recognize, understand and appropriately respond to patients who have experienced trauma, reducing the likelihood of escalation
- Simulated training exercises to provide hands-on experience in handling real-world emergency scenarios, improving response times and decision-making under pressure
- Active shooter/hostile event response training to ensure staff can execute rapid, coordinated actions during high-risk incidents, minimizing harm to patients, visitors and personnel
2. Security risk assessments with community and population analysis
A comprehensive security risk assessment goes beyond evaluating internal facility vulnerabilities — it must also consider external community factors that influence healthcare security such as:
- Analyzing local crime rates and socioeconomic factors to predict external threats that could impact hospital operations, staff and patient safety
- Conducting demographic analyses to assess mental health trends, substance abuse statistics, gang-related activity and other factors that may contribute to violence or security risks
- Tailoring security measures based on local threats, optimized resource allocation, staff preparedness and a security posture that aligns with the unique challenges of the facility’s surrounding environment
- Incorporating a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) analysis to enhance security by evaluating natural surveillance, natural access control, territorial reinforcement and maintenance that deter criminal activity and promote a safer environment
3. Identifying patient risks to violence during triage
Many violent incidents in healthcare facilities stem from patients experiencing distress, substance withdrawal or mental health crises. Integrating structured violence risk assessments into the triage or admission process enables early identification of at-risk individuals, allowing healthcare teams to proactively manage potential threats. These assessments help:
- Assess individuals who may be high risk, allowing for rapid intervention strategies and faster discharge
- Enhance communication between security and clinical staff to create a proactive response plan
- Expedite treatment and discharge for high-risk cases, reducing prolonged exposure to potentially volatile situations
4. Technology integration for real-time threat monitoring
Modern security technologies extend beyond traditional surveillance; they enhance the security workforce, streamline operations with automated workflows, reduce response times and potentially lower labor costs. AI-driven solutions and real-time monitoring tools empower healthcare facilities to detect and mitigate threats before they escalate. Advanced solutions include:
- AI-powered video analytics to detect aggressive behavior before escalation
- Wearable duress alarms for healthcare workers in high-risk units
- Predictive analytics that use historical data to flag potential security risks
- Walk-through metal detectors that ensure weapons do not enter the facility
5. Threat Assessment/Management Teams for proactive threat mitigation
Threat Assessment/Management Teams (TMTs) are essential for proactively identifying, evaluating and mitigating threats before they escalate. These multidisciplinary teams combine security, clinical and administrative expertise to assess risks and implement strategic interventions that enhance overall safety. Their key functions include:
- Monitoring social media and other digital platforms to identify potential threats, suspicious activity or concerning behavior
- Educating and raising awareness among staff about environmental safety initiatives, situational awareness and proactive threat identification
- Conducting routine environmental rounds to assess real-time security risks and identify vulnerabilities within the healthcare facility
- Collaborating with local law enforcement to develop joint response strategies and enhance emergency preparedness efforts
- Creating individualized safety and security plans for high-risk individuals or situations, ensuring a tailored approach to threat mitigation
The healthcare industry faces unique and evolving security challenges, making it critical to adopt proactive, data-driven strategies for workplace violence prevention. A well-prepared organization not only enhances safety but also fosters a culture of security awareness and resilience. Through strategic planning, collaboration and innovation, healthcare providers can significantly reduce workplace violence and create a safer, more secure environment for all.