Violence in the Workplace

1. Violence in the Workplace SAFE @ BWC

2. General Characteristics of a • Hostage Situation • The hostage taker is angry, wants answers and • publicity for his/her cause. • Carries a weapon • Beginning and end of situation are the most dangerous • Bargaining • Premeditated control of hostages through room set up • Demands • Actions to resolve the siege SAFE @ BWC

3. The BWC Hostage Incident • Nov. 13, 1996 • Disgruntled Injured Worker • Guns and gas • 3 BWC employees, Governor, publicity • Shield himself, placement of hostages • 2 guns, 2 hostages, Coke, cigarettes, call to Governor, BWC check. SAFE @ BWC

4. Conditions of a Hostage Situation • Audience and publicity • Potential homicide in progress • Terrifying • Lose control except for thinking and breathing • Stockholm Syndrome SAFE @ BWC

5. Tips For Survival (Do’s) • Mentally active • Calm vs. panic • Talk (but not too much) • Listen (why are you there?) SAFE @ BWC

6. Tips For Survival ( Don’ts ) • Patronize • Invade his space • Try to take over negotiations • Disobey unless…… • Look him in the eye (Aggressive ) • Argue or suggest • Make sudden moves ( Get permission ) • Become impatient • Resist or not to resist SAFE @ BWC

7. Troubling Signs • One last coke and cigarette • Federal or state prison ? • “Run at SWAT” • “You’re in trouble when the voice goes flat “ • Failure. Suicide. “He’s already dead.” SAFE @ BWC

8. Troubling Signs ( Cont’d ) • Failed to keep his word • Burning his bridges • Last hostage! WHY ?? • Swat storm the room • No demand for escape • No request for survival SAFE @ BWC

9. End Of SiegeWhat the hostage can expect • Handled aggressively • Searched • Interviewed by PD • Doctor, physical, crisis counselor, and victim assistance • Press • Unusual incidents SAFE @ BWC

10. After Effects • Co-workers • Wife and family • Victim • It never ends SAFE @ BWC

11. Q&A • Closing statement SAFE @ BWC

12. SAFE @ BWC