What is it?

It is essential for all employees to feel safe and protected while working in the office or the field. Your workplace should have clear policies and protocols to help prevent you from encountering unsafe situations. There should be a clear protocol to follow if you believe your work environment is unsafe.

Why does it matter?

It is hard to do your best work when you are concerned with your well-being and safety. The families you work with rely on you to build a relationship based on trust and respect. If your safety is compromised, so is your professional relationship with the people you work with.

Practice strategies that work

Each time you meet with a client, you should use this checklist. It is critical to make workplace safety part of your daily practice, just like using your seatbelt.

• Call the individual before the visit: Check the address and tell them when you plan to visit. Ask them where to park, what door to enter, and any safety concerns, such as an aggressive dog.
• Learn who will be in the home: This allows you to prepare for who you will be working with and alerts you to dangers such as a suspected abuser in the house.
• Be aware of hazards and groups of people: Drive by the home before parking and check for dangers such as aggressive animals or individuals who appear dangerous. You can call the client to reschedule if there are safety concerns.
• Park on the street with the car facing away from the home: Parking this way allows you to leave quickly if necessary. Remember to lock your car doors.
• Minimize distractions: Place your phone in your pocket so you can stay vigilant as you approach the house.
• Walk to the house with confidence: Your mannerisms dictate to others your sense of calm and your preparedness for any aggressive action.
• Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas: You can also let clients know to look for you so they can safely guide you into the house.
• Maintain good visibility: Once you are in the home sit near an exit in case you need to leave quickly. Do not go into isolated rooms in the house.
• Ask clients if they are expecting anyone else to join them: This step helps reduce surprises.
• When leaving, have your keys in your hand, and re-check your surroundings: You are now ready for a quick exit and aware of any new potential dangers, such as dogs.

Downloadable Checklist