What is The Cost to an Organization if an Active Shooter Incident Occurs?
Note: Active Assailant is the most accurate all-inclusive term for describing those that use firearms, edged, blunt, or improvised weapons, vehicles, and chemical or biological devices to commit violent acts. This blog specifically discusses shooting incidents and will use the term Active Shooter.
An active shooter incident can cost billions of dollars to an organization, and with the dramatic rise in incidents, this matter should have everyone’s attention. Not only can the financial impact be devastating, but its impact on employees can be the most significant cost of all.
Various factors can influence the impact on the organization. Those factors include the scale of the incident, the number of casualties, the response time, and post-incident recovery efforts. Therefore, the greatest indicator for predicting an incident's impact on an organization is having a comprehensive workplace violence prevention program, including pre-incident planning.
Research confirms that preparation is critical to minimizing the devastating effects that impact the organization holistically. According to an Oxford Metrica research study, Protecting Value in the Face of Mass Fatality Events, conducted by Rory F Knight & Deborah J Pretty, when studying the impact of significant events on an organization's brand and recovery, they concluded that for those that were void of readiness, response, and recovery protocol, the impact was up to 50% more devastating.
“It was found that firms tend to fall into one of two relatively distinct groups - Recoverers and Non-recoverers - depending largely on the ability of senior management to deal effectively with the aftermath of the crisis” (Knight & Pretty, 2005).
Here are some of the potential costs associated with an active shooter incident:
Human Cost: An active shooter incident's most devastating and irreparable cost is the loss of human lives and the physical and emotional harm inflicted upon survivors. This includes the victims, their families, and the trauma experienced by witnesses and employees during the incident. In the United States, where active shooter incidents have received significant attention, data from the FBI's 2018 report on active shooter incidents indicated that between 2000 and 2018, there were 277 incidents. These incidents resulted in the loss of 884 lives and injured 1,546 individuals.
Legal and Liability Expenses: Organizations may face legal consequences and potential liability claims from victims, their families, and even employees who were present during the incident. This can result in legal fees, settlements, and damages awarded in lawsuits, which can be substantial.
Here are some examples of active shooter incidents where litigation occurred.
Sandy Hook Elementary School Shooting (2012): Following the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, lawsuits were filed against the manufacturer, distributor, and seller of the firearm used. The victims' families alleged negligence and sought to hold the gun industry accountable.
Aurora Theater Shooting (2012): In the Aurora, Colorado theater shooting case, where a gunman opened fire during a screening of a Batman movie, victims and their families filed lawsuits against the theater chain, claiming inadequate security measures that failed to prevent the attack.
Pulse Nightclub Shooting (2016): Lawsuits were filed against the owner of the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, where a mass shooting occurred, alleging negligence and inadequate security measures.
Las Vegas Strip Shooting (2017): In the case of the mass shooting during a music festival in Las Vegas, lawsuits were filed against the hotel where the shooter stayed, alleging negligence in failing to detect and prevent the attack.
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting (2018): Families of the victims in the Parkland, Florida school shooting filed lawsuits against multiple entities, including the school district, law enforcement agencies, and the FBI, alleging negligence and failures in providing adequate security and responding to warning signs.
Business Disruption:
An active shooter incident can severely disrupt an organization's normal operations. The facility may need to be closed temporarily or permanently, leading to a loss of productivity, revenue, and potential business opportunities. Additionally, employees may require time off for medical treatment, counseling, or recovery, further impacting productivity and increasing costs.
The Borderline Bar and Grill in Thousand Oaks, California, was the site of a mass shooting in November 2018, where 12 people were killed. Following the incident, the business temporarily closed, and eventually, the owner announced that the establishment would not reopen at that location. Factors such as the emotional impact on the community, ongoing investigation, and potential legal considerations likely influenced the decision to close the business.
Security Measures:
Following an active shooter incident, organizations often need to invest in enhanced security measures to prevent future incidents and reassure employees and stakeholders. This can include hiring additional security personnel, implementing advanced surveillance systems, conducting security assessments, and upgrading infrastructure. These measures come with their own costs in terms of equipment, training, and ongoing maintenance.
Here are some security measures you can implement to mitigate the risk of an active shooter incident before it occurs:
Establish a Culture of Security: Foster a culture of security and awareness within the organization. Encourage employees to report suspicious behavior, maintain open communication channels, and provide regular training on recognizing potential threats.
Conduct Risk Assessments: Perform thorough risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies. Assess physical security, access control systems, and emergency response protocols to ensure they align with best practices and industry standards.
Implement Access Control Measures: Control access to your facility through measures such as electronic key cards, visitor management systems, and security checkpoints. Limit entry points and monitor and record visitor and employee movement.
Enhance Physical Security: Install security measures, such as surveillance cameras, intrusion detection systems, and panic buttons, to deter and detect potential threats. Ensure that these systems are regularly maintained and monitored.
Develop an Emergency Response Plan: Establish an emergency response plan that includes individual and organizational response procedures for active shooter incidents. Train employees on protocol, conduct drills and exercises, and ensure that evacuation routes, safe areas, and assembly points are clearly marked and communicated.
Provide Training and Education: Offer regular training sessions on active shooter response, situational awareness, and personal safety. Train employees to recognize warning signs, report concerns, and respond appropriately during an incident.
Encourage Reporting and Threat Assessment: Establish a confidential reporting mechanism for employees to report concerning behavior or threats. Implement a threat assessment team to evaluate and respond to reports appropriately.
Collaborate with Law Enforcement: Develop relationships and communication channels with local law enforcement agencies. Engage in joint training exercises, share information, and establish protocols for responding to active shooter incidents.
Foster Mental Health and Support: Promote employee well-being and mental health initiatives. Offer resources such as counseling services, employee assistance programs, and promote work-life balance to reduce stress and address potential risk factors.
Regularly Review and Update Security Measures: Security measures should be reviewed periodically to ensure they are up-to-date and effective. Stay informed about emerging trends and technologies to adapt security measures accordingly.
Reputation Damage:
The Oxford study shows that an active shooter event can significantly damage an organization's reputation. Negative media coverage and public perception of the incident can lead to loss of trust, decreased customer loyalty, and potential boycotts. Rebuilding a tarnished reputation can be a long and expensive process.
Here are some examples of organizations that were proactive in rebuilding their reputations following an active shooter tragedy.
Virginia Tech: In 2007, Virginia Tech experienced a tragic shooting incident that resulted in the loss of 32 lives. The university took several steps to rebuild its reputation, including establishing a memorial, enhancing campus security measures, improving communication and emergency response protocols, and implementing mental health initiatives. Over time, the university has emphasized its commitment to safety and support for its students, faculty, and staff.
Columbine High School: Following the devastating shooting in 1999, Columbine High School in Colorado faced immense challenges in terms of reputation. The school community worked hard to heal and rebuild, implementing new security measures, providing counseling services, and initiating programs to prevent violence and promote emotional well-being. The school's focus on resilience and community support played a significant role in rebuilding its reputation over time.
Accent Signage Systems: In 2012, an active shooter incident occurred at Accent Signage Systems in Minneapolis, Minnesota, resulting in multiple fatalities. The company demonstrated strong leadership and compassion, supporting the affected families, actively engaging with the community, and implementing comprehensive security measures. Through transparency, community involvement, and a commitment to safety, Accent Signage Systems worked towards rebuilding its reputation.
The Mall in Columbia: In 2014, a shooting incident occurred at The Mall in Columbia, Maryland. The mall management and the community came together to support the victims and their families. The mall implemented enhanced security measures, increased communication with customers, and worked closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of visitors. Over time, The Mall in Columbia regained its reputation as a safe and welcoming place for shoppers.
Employee Support and Assistance:
Organizations may need to provide support services, such as counseling, therapy, and other resources, to help employees cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the tragedy. This can include hiring external professionals or dedicating internal resources to address the mental health needs of affected individuals.
Here are some things Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can do to assist in preparing for and responding to an active shooter incident:
Pre-Incident Preparation:
Education and Training: EAPs can assist with training sessions or workshops to educate employees on active shooter preparedness, response strategies, and stress management techniques.
Crisis Response Plans: Collaborate with the organization's crisis response team to develop comprehensive plans that include EAP services and support in the event of an active shooter incident. Ensure EAP representatives are involved in developing and reviewing these plans.
Crisis Response:
On-Site Support: Have EAP representatives available on-site during and immediately after an active shooter incident to support and assist employees and their families. This may involve setting up dedicated spaces for counseling or creating a hotline for immediate access to EAP services.
Psychological First Aid: EAP professionals can provide psychological first aid, offering immediate emotional support, coping strategies, and referrals to additional mental health resources.
Crisis Counseling: EAPs can offer specialized counseling services tailored to address the trauma and emotional impact of the incident. This may involve individual counseling, group support sessions, or critical incident stress debriefing (CISD) sessions.
Post-Incident Support:
Long-Term Counseling: EAPs can provide ongoing counseling services to help employees and their families cope with the long-term psychological effects of the incident.
Referral Network: Maintain a network of mental health professionals specializing in trauma, grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to ensure employees can access specialized care beyond the EAP's scope.
Resilience and Coping Resources: Develop and distribute resources, such as educational materials, self-help tools, and online resources, to assist employees in building resilience, managing stress, and coping with the incident's aftermath.
Training and Awareness:
Ongoing Education: Assist with continued education and training sessions for employees to raise awareness about mental health, stress management, and available EAP resources. This can help foster a supportive and prepared work environment.
Early Intervention Programs: Develop programs that encourage early identification and intervention for employees struggling with mental health issues following the incident. This can involve proactive outreach, regular check-ins, and support initiatives.
Regulatory Compliance: Following an active shooter incident, organizations may be required to comply with new or enhanced workplace safety and security regulations. This can involve additional training, stricter protocols, and compliance audits, resulting in increased costs to meet regulatory standards. Getting your organization consistent with standards before a tragedy ever occurs could not only save you money, but it could save lives!
Here are some examples of laws and regulations in the United States regarding active assailant preparedness.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): The federal agency sets and enforces workplace safety and health regulations in the United States. While OSHA does not have specific regulations focused solely on active shooter incidents, they require employers to provide a safe work environment. OSHA's General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act) requires employers to identify and address recognized hazards, which could include potential active shooter situations. OSHA may issue citations and penalties if an employer fails to address significant risks associated with workplace violence.
State and Local Regulations: Some states and local jurisdictions have specific laws and regulations related to workplace violence prevention, which can encompass active shooter preparedness. These regulations may require employers to conduct risk assessments, develop and implement violence prevention programs, provide employee training, and establish emergency response procedures. Examples of states with such regulations include California, Illinois, and New York.
Public and Private Sector Partnerships: In specific industries, such as healthcare, partnerships between government agencies and private sector organizations may establish guidelines or recommendations for active shooter preparedness. For instance, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the DNV, and the Joint Commission have issued guidelines and resources to help healthcare facilities develop active shooter response plans.
School Safety Measures: Educational institutions may be subject to specific laws and regulations pertaining to school safety. These measures can include active shooter drills, emergency response plans, security assessments, and collaboration with law enforcement agencies. These regulations can vary by state and district.
It is important to note that the costs associated with an active shooter incident go beyond financial considerations. The emotional toll on individuals, families, and communities affected by such events is immeasurable. Organizations should prioritize preventative measures, preparedness, and support systems to mitigate the risk and impact of such tragedies.
Ready to build a comprehensive violence prevention program for your organization? CPPS’ Safe Workplace Unlimited Package is all you need. The Unlimited Package gets your organization consistent with industry standards, promotes a culture of safety, and empowers your personnel to be stakeholders in their safety and security.
