Recent unrest in the UK highlights the pressing need for enhanced employee safety measures.
- Demand for personal safety alarms has surged by 10% in two weeks.
- Lone workers in retail, hospitality, and healthcare feel increasingly vulnerable.
- Seven million UK workers worry about their safety weekly, citing aggression risks.
- Employers urged to go beyond basic safety compliance to protect staff.
The recent civil unrest across the United Kingdom has brought employee safety concerns to the forefront. With a palpable increase in demand for personal safety solutions, such as alarms, businesses are acknowledging the inadequacy of existing protective measures. In just two weeks, requests for safety alarms have increased by 10%, signifying a heightened awareness and demand for more comprehensive safety strategies among UK employers.
Lone workers, especially in sectors like retail, hospitality, and healthcare, face heightened vulnerability. The reality of personal safety as an ongoing concern is underscored by statements from industry leaders. Naz Dossa, CEO of Peoplesafe, highlighted that such issues do not stem solely from isolated incidents; instead, they remain a persistent challenge for workers. Many employees, approximately seven million, experience a weekly anxiety regarding personal safety, and a significant proportion already expresses reluctance to engage in roles requiring public interaction.
Preceding the riots, research indicated that 57% of workers were already uneasy about potential hostility from the public. Additionally, 25% of employees would prefer roles devoid of public-facing responsibilities due to safety apprehensions. This sentiment reflects the necessity for employee protection beyond traditional office hours, emphasizing a 24/7 approach to safety that encompasses commutes and fieldwork.
Employers are now being called to action, going beyond conventional health and safety protocols. By integrating personal safety technology, companies can mitigate threats and ensure employees feel secure. The implementation of comprehensive safety resources, including emergency response systems, can offer peace of mind, illustrating an employer’s commitment to their staff’s well-being.
A case in point is Ingenica Solutions, which promptly adjusted its safety measures following recent unrest. The company’s response underscores the urgency and importance of equipping employees with safety technologies, like the Peoplesafe app, to enhance their security during field operations and beyond regular working hours.
Recent events necessitate a shift towards proactive safety measures to ensure workforce security.
