The Importance of Active Shooter and Workplace Violence Training in the Temp Staffing Industry

Recent events, like the tragic shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, GA, serve as a stark reminder of how quickly violence can occur in places we least expect. This highlights the urgent need for discussions around workplace violence and active shooter preparedness, especially for the temp staffing industry, where employees are often placed in unfamiliar client environments.?

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Workplace violence isn’t just a headline—it’s a real threat that affects every industry, and temporary workers are particularly vulnerable. These workers often enter environments where they may not fully understand safety protocols, putting them at increased risk. And while OSHA doesn’t have specific regulations addressing workplace violence, employers can still be held accountable under the General Duty Clause to ensure a safe and hazard-free workplace.?

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Proactive Measures for Staffing Agencies?

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While staffing agencies may not control the work environment at client sites, there are critical steps they can take to help protect their temporary workers:?

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1. Establish a Zero Tolerance Policy: Implement a Zero Tolerance Policy against workplace violence that applies to all temp workers. Ensure this policy is communicated clearly to both temps and client companies.?

2. Review and Train Temps on Client Protocols: Before placing temps at client sites, review the client’s workplace violence protocols with them. Make sure temps understand emergency procedures, including how to report incidents and what actions to take during a violent situation, including an active shooter scenario.?

3. Partner with Clients on Safety Protocols: Collaborate with clients to ensure they have strong workplace violence prevention programs and that temporary workers are included in relevant safety training, from active shooter response to conflict de-escalation.?

4. Provide Violence Prevention Training: Offer training that equips your temps to recognize warning signs of violence, report incidents effectively, and take action in emergencies. This should be part of your onboarding process, so temps feel prepared before their assignments start.?

5. Conduct Regular Safety Check-Ins: Regularly check in with temps to ensure they feel safe and understand the client’s safety procedures. Provide a clear pathway for temps to report any safety concerns back to your agency.?

6. Foster Open Communication: Encourage temps to voice any safety concerns they encounter on the job. Establish a confidential reporting line and ensure that every report is taken seriously and addressed promptly.?

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Why This Matters?

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For staffing agencies, protecting temps goes beyond placements—it’s about ensuring ongoing safety and support. By actively participating in workplace violence prevention, you not only fulfill your responsibility but also strengthen trust with both your temps and clients. A proactive approach helps reduce liabilities and fosters a safer work environment.?

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Incidents like the one at Apalachee High School remind us that violence can strike anywhere, and it’s our job to be prepared. Reviewing and training temps on workplace violence protocols isn’t just a precaution; it’s a necessary step in safeguarding their well-being. Let’s commit to making safety a priority and empower our temporary workers with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe on the job.?

We have mountains of resources to help you build out your workplace violence response plan.

Feel free to reach out to me at: [email protected] or 770-654-8666.