H.I.T. Self Defense

We decided to switch this post up a bit and talk about workplace violence. This can pertain to the new college grad on your first job, or the seasoned veteran out there surviving the concrete jungle. Most people associate workplace violence with a co-worker “going postal”, but this is only a small percent of the assaults in the workplace. Workplace violence perpetrators can include customers, co-workers, domestic violence spillovers, and the predatory criminal with no affiliation to the workplace. Men often think they are immune, but they are actually twice as likely to be a victim of workplace violence. That being said, let’s cover a few potential problem areas with a few suggestions:

Leasing Agent/Real Estate Agent: We had a predator a few years back in San Diego that set up appointments to look at potential properties - once inside, he would rape the agent. This is a tough situation, as you want to make the sale (especially in these difficult financial times). Be aware, this is a prime scenario for an attack. You’re isolated and more often than not - you don’t know the individual you’re meeting. Here are a few suggestions: use that inner-voice (trust your instincts) if the situation feels wrong, back off. If possible, have the potential client meet you your office first, so you can get some information on them and get a “feel” for him or her. If that’s not possible, get as much information about them over the phone before you meet and consider taking a co-worker with you. When arriving, observe the persons personal car and description and the license number, then call it in to the office so someone’s got a record of it. Do not be the first through the door: This might be an opportunity for the other individual to block you in and lock the door. Let them walk through the door first. Also, keep your exit areas open and keep as close as possible to potential exits. If you are attacked - remember: go for the marbles (eyes and groin) and ’stick it’ to them… this might give you a few seconds to make your escape - and YELL to get anyone and everyone’s attention.

Workplace (late night/early morning): If you find yourself working early in the morning or late at night, a few suggestions: Park close to the entrance. If you have to park out in the north forty, move your car closer to the entrance during the lunch hour. Be alert on the way to the car (no cell phone/texting). Have your keys in your hand to enter your car quickly and to use as a potential weapon (see the HIT DVD) against an attacker. Remember, a predator wants to isolate their victims. If you’re working by yourself, you are going to potentially be in an isolated situation. Use the buddy system: walk out to the car with a co-worker, even if it means waiting a few minutes for them. If you have a security guard on-site, have them walk you to your car. Two other important tools that you should have: a small flashlight (look inside your car before you open the door) and some pepper spray (try to avoid the smaller key chain pepper spray as these might not be as accessible in a volatile situation). One last note: let someone know you are leaving if you leave late at night. At least loved ones or friends know when to expect you home.

In the Office:This could be a predator who enters the workplace (often on a ruse), a domestic violence spillover, or an irate customer or employee that feels they’ve been wronged. In the latter case, this often involves verbal assaults - but sometimes this can quickly escalate into a physical assault. First, keep all work areas secured and question the presence of persons you don’t recognize or don’t have their I.D. visible. Don’t tolerate inappropriate behavior in the workplace, set boundaries. If you feel the person may become violent, notify a supervisor or security to assist you. Have a code word to use over the intercom or phone to notify a co-worker if you don’t feel comfortable telling them what the problem is in front of the person. If you are threatened, leave the area, putting obstacles and barriers between you and the potential assailant. If you need to, use a ruse, like “can I get you some water?”, or “I need to check the file”. Don’t ‘take one for the team’ - and don’t let the situation get out of hand. Just like any other situation, be ready to defend yourself if necessary to facilitate an escape.

Remember: sometimes our chances of attack are higher dependent on the nature of the industry we work in… but no one is immune from workplace violence.

For more information on my ‘Business Training’ workshops and seminars, visit: www.defensivesystems.com

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