While companies work diligently to manage, track and reduce unintentional workplace injuries they forget about workplace violence issues on and off-the-job. Why should they focus more on these areas?
With the arrival of spring, the days are getting longer. The sun is shining later and the flowers are blooming. People are increasing their amount of time outdoors and crime rates in the Midwest are out of control.
How does all of this affect corporate America? Workplace violence costs are a staggering $120 billion per year. In addition to on-the-job costs, off-the-job costs due to violence are enormous for America’s workforce. The costs, in 2004. to the nation were close to $193.6 billion.
Between 2004 and 2006, violent crime rates rose by double-digit percentages in cities across the country. Today, it is hard to find someone who isn’t touched by violence. Today, it takes more than law enforcement to put a stop to crime.
“Why invest in an on-the-job personal safety training program?” Larry Elliott of Executive Defense Technology in St Louis asks. The cost of a single violent incident both on and off-the-job can exceed the total investment in a personal safety training program. For example, a lingering disability may involve hospitalization, psychological treatment due to post traumatic stress, weekly payment of disability benefits, increased health care costs for the corporation, decreased productivity, lost sales and negative publicity. On top of all of this, the average jury award against employers who failed to take proactive, preventative measures under the 1996 OSHA guidelines, is $3.1 million per person, per incident.
A program that can increase production and reduce operating costs makes good economic sense.
“Due to this increase in violence, training is an essential component in preparing individuals to operate safely in any environment. You don't need to be a black belt to protect yourself. Safety awareness about your environment and education on how to escape a compromising position will be your key to staying safe on a daily basis.” Vice-President Paul Schmitz says.
Self Defense Programs and Firms come and go. So how do you choose the right program for your organization?
As a company that local NBC new channels turn to for safety advice, Executive Defense Technology takes personal safety training to new heights. It provides a unique self defense training program that not only offers personal safety training but an inside look at the criminal mind and how it works. By providing this inside look, employees can potentially avoid becoming a victim of crime. “No bells, no whistles, just a sound dose of reality.” Schmitz say. “We are committed to helping corporate safety educators reach as many people as possible with effective, appropriate educational tools”.
To receive free information about Executive Defense Technology’s multiple training programs or register for a workshop, visit www.execdeftech.com or call (314) 266 – 4149.
