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 Home Campaigns Freedom From Fear Campaign News
Don’t let Usdaw members be a victim of violent crime
02 February 2007
Use this leaflet to help explain what the union can do to protect its members.
Violent crime is a very real hazard for shopworkers, but there are things that employers can and should do to protect their staff.
10 pointers to a safer workplace
Every workplace is different and there is no single simple solution in most workplaces. But here are some pointers:
- Be prepared
Would you know what to do if you spot a shoplifter or credit card fraud or if there is a robbery? Your employer should have procedures to deal with incidents planned in advance.
- Physical protection
Security measures, alarms, CCTV, protective barriers, panic buttons can all help. Staff need to know how to operate security systems provided.
- Training
Staff need to know what they are expected to do when an incident develops, how to follow safe working procedures, how to use security equipment properly.
- Cash handling
Cash should be kept out of sight and not allowed to build up in the till.
- Banking
Where possible banking should be done by specialist security staff. Should not be done alone, should not be done on foot or by public transport. Staff who are expected to do it should be fully trained.
- Shoplifters
Over half of the physical assaults are linked to attempted shoplifting. Employers should make sure all staff know what to do if they see a suspected shoplifter. The policy should make it clear that no-one should risk personal safety to protect property.
- Armed robbery
Employers should train people to be prepared for armed robbery. Doing exactly what the robber tells you, not resisting, avoiding sudden movements, not raising the alarm until it is safe to do so, should all be part of the policy.
- Lone working
Working alone at high risk times, e.g. late at night, should be avoided. Where staff are expected to work alone, e.g. in a petrol kiosk, extra precautions should be taken.
- Reporting incidents
Employers need to know exactly what risks their staff are exposed to. A reliable system for recording all incidents helps to build up the picture.
- Reviewing procedures
To make sure that things are working properly, employers should review their procedures on a regular basis in consultation with the union safety representatives.
You can get copies of this leaftlet from the Stationery department at Central Office or visit the online resource library and download the Don’t be a victim of violent crime leaflet now.
Contact Details
Media and Communications Department
Ph: 0161 224 2804
Fax: 0161 248 8588
communications@usdaw.org.uk
http://www.usdaw.org.uk/campaigns/freedom_from_fear/
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