OLCC data shows that cannabis retailers in Oregon are on track to pass the number of burglaries that we had in 2020. As a worker, there’s only so much that you can do to protect yourself on the job. If you are feeling unsafe at work, we crafted an email template and risk assessment form that you can use to start a conversation with your co-workers, and your boss, about making the workplace a safer place.
Techniques to Reduce Conflict
Conflict can show up fast and without warning. We have found that these triggers are often the kind that initiate unacceptable behavior in the dispensary:
- Being ignored
- Line jumping, inpatient waiting for I.D. check
- Not being appropriately advised that a prescription item is unavailable
- Inexperienced or un-trained personnel
- Unsympathetic behaviour by staff
- Responses that belittle
With that knowledge, be aware of the outward signs that commonly precede abuse, aggression and violence:
- a raised voice
- exaggerated movements such as pacing about
- clenched fists, not necessarily raised
- finger prodding and pointing
- staring
- a change towards incoherence
- invasion of personal space norms
Up to 90% of communication is non-verbal, use confident and non-aggressive body language. Hands on hips, arms folded and finger-pointing are antagonistic stances that must be avoided.
- Maintain eye contact, if not constantly then frequently and fully.
- Respect personal space norms.
- Be prepared to explain who you are and the boundaries within which you can discuss and communicate.
Initial Email of Concern
When conflict resolution isn’t enough, it is time to get your boss in the mix. There is never an excuse for workers to put their lives on the line for profit and as workers we need to stand together and reaffirm that to our superiors.
Dear [MANAGER OR OWNER NAME]
Although it is less busy after 6pm, it is a time when many burglaries have occurred in similar shops and I believe that there should be more than two people on duty besides the team lead.
Our camera system does not cover all the vulnerable areas of the store and the rotation of the tapes is haphazard. In view of recent threats and abuse suffered by several of the staff, the training and support available is far from sufficient. Inadequate training leads to irrational behavior and a degree of panic when there is a confrontation with a customer.
I am drawing your attention to these issues because not only am I concerned for the safety of all who work here, but also because my understanding is that as an employer, you have liabilities under health and safety legislation to take an active role in minimizing risk.
I hope that you will be in a position to respond soon.
Sincerely,
[YOUR NAME]
Risk Management Assessment Form
Email to Discuss Risk Management Assessment
Dear [MANAGER OR OWNER NAME]
I am writing to express my concern regarding health and safety at [SHOP NAME]. I believe there are issues concerning my own safety and possibly that of others who work there.
ALTERNATIVE A: I have undertaken a personal safety risk assessment and, taking into account the existing measures in place, it seems to me that there are some shortcomings in practices, procedures or the premises itself. I would welcome the opportunity of sharing my findings with you and note the key issues here.
ALTERNATIVE B: I know we have already discussed these matters but it seems appropriate to summarise them below to help you in addressing them as soon as possible.
[EXAMPLES OF ISSUES TO RAISE, USE SOME OR ALL]
Bearing in mind the time that we close at the end of the day, it is unsafe to allow just one person to be present.
Although it is less busy after 6pm, it is a time when many burglaries have occurred in similar shops and I believe that there should be more than two people on duty besides the team lead. Our camera system does not cover all the vulnerable areas of the store and the rotation of the tapes is haphazard.
In view of recent threats and abuse suffered by several of the staff, the training and support available appears far from sufficient. Inadequate training leads to irrational behavior and a degree of panic when there is a confrontation with a customer.
I am drawing your attention to these issues because not only am I concerned for the safety of all who work here, but also because my understanding is that as an employer, you have liabilities under health and safety legislation to take an active role in minimizing risk.
I hope you will be in a position to respond soon.
Sincerely,
[YOUR NAME]