Comprehensive Workplace Safety Measures Elevate International Credit Bureau’s Security Culture

Summary

A leading international credit bureau recently achieved the Safe Workplace Certification (SWC) through CPPS. The company partnered with CPPS to implement a comprehensive workplace violence prevention program. This effort not only addressed existing security gaps but also strengthened its ability to manage and mitigate potential risks. Achieving SWC significantly enhanced the company’s capacity to respond to workplace violence threats and fostered a safer and more resilient environment for its workforce.

The Challenge
Before pursuing SWC, the credit bureau faced significant challenges in ensuring workplace safety. Although some security protocols were in place, the company lacked a formalized, comprehensive approach to workplace violence prevention. Key gaps existed in its violence prevention policies, incident management, and training programs. The organization did not have a standardized approach to handling threats, and there was no multidisciplinary Threat Management Team (TMT) to coordinate safety efforts across departments. Additionally, the training provided to employees and leadership on recognizing and managing workplace threats was insufficient, and there were no formal protocols for responding to active assailant scenarios.

The CPPS Solution
To address these challenges, CPPS conducted a thorough Workplace Violence Prevention and Intervention (WVPI) Program assessment, which included a detailed review of the company’s existing policies, procedures, and safety practices. This process helped identify areas for improvement, resulting in a tailored plan to bring the company’s workplace safety efforts in line with certification standards.

Key steps in the certification process included:

• Program Analysis and Needs Assessment: CPPS began by assessing the company’s current workplace violence prevention program through interviews with key stakeholders and a review of relevant policies. This helped pinpoint vulnerabilities and gaps in the company’s approach to workplace safety, providing a foundation for program improvements.

• Program Development: Based on the assessment, CPPS guided the company through key improvements:

• Multidisciplinary Threat Management Team (TMT): A formalized TMT was established, with representatives from security, human resources, legal, and facilities departments. This team was tasked with evaluating and responding to violent incidents and threats. Training was provided to ensure effective management of these situations.

• Policy Enhancement: The company’s Workplace Violence Prevention Policy was updated to clearly define workplace violence, ensure confidentiality in reporting, and include provisions for addressing intimate partner violence. The policy also introduced protections against retaliation for employees who report concerns.

• Training for All Employees: A comprehensive training program was implemented to ensure that all employees received awareness-level training on recognizing and responding to workplace violence. This included guidance on how to report concerns and respond in the event of an active assailant. The training was designed to ensure that a minimum percentage of employees completed the program, helping to raise overall awareness across the organization.

• Enhanced Training for Managers and Leadership: In addition to general employee training, managers and leaders received enhanced training focused on their specific responsibilities in violence prevention. This training included identifying concerning behavior, de-escalation techniques, and supporting the Threat Management Team in managing workplace threats. Leadership was also trained to foster a culture of safety and to actively support the company’s violence prevention efforts.

• Threat Management Team Development and Training: The newly established TMT received specialized training in behavioral threat assessment and crisis management. The team was equipped to handle complex workplace violence scenarios, including intervention, investigation, and post- incident follow-up. The organization also implemented a centralized system for managing and tracking threat-related incidents, ensuring consistent oversight and follow-up.

Results

After successfully completing the SWC process, the credit bureau experienced a significant transformation in its workplace safety culture. The certification validated the organization’s compliance with industry best practices and enhanced its ability to manage and mitigate workplace violence risks.

Key improvements included:

• The creation of a secure, centralized system for recording and managing workplace violence reports.
  Enhanced employee confidence and participation in reporting concerning behaviors without fear of retaliation.

• A formal, coordinated threat management process supported by internal and external experts.
  Significant improvements in leadership’s ability to manage potential threats and crises effectively.

• The credit bureau’s commitment to safety and security was also recognized by external stakeholders, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in workplace safety and violence prevention.

Conclusion

By attaining the Safe Workplace Certification, this international credit bureau has taken a significant step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees. The certification not only improved internal security protocols but also strengthened the company’s resilience and readiness to handle potential threats. This achievement has reinforced the organization’s standing as a responsible, forward-thinking leader in workplace violence prevention and sets a powerful example for others in the industry.