Staying Healthy And Safe During Wildfires

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

In many parts of the United States, the risk of wildfires begins early spring and continues into the fall. Being prepared for fire activity is crucial if you live in a wildfire-prone area. Wildfires can be a serious threat to lives and property—and smoke pollution can affect your health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), wildfire smoke mostly consists of fine inhalable particles known as PM2.5, which is of greatest concern to public health. Air pollution from large wildfires can be widespread and linger over other states or countries.

This article highlights strategies for staying healthy and safe amid wildfires.

Health and Safety Measures

When wildfires create smoky conditions, everyone needs to reduce their exposure to the smoke. Wildfire smoke irritates your eyes, nose, throat and lungs. It can make it hard to breathe and make you cough or wheeze.

Consider the following tips for protecting you and your family during a wildfire:

  • Follow guidance from local and state officials. Pay attention to emergency alerts for information and instructions, and listen to authorities for guidance on evacuating your home and when it’s safe to return.
  • Keep smoke outside. Staying indoors is highly recommended for reducing exposure to smoke pollution, but contaminants can make their way inside. To protect yourself, you should:
    • Choose a room you can easily close off from the outside air in your home. It could be helpful to use a portable air cleaner or filter to maintain clean air in the designated room or space. A quality heating, ventilating and air conditioning system with air filters can also help remove particles from the air.
    • Keep all doors and windows shut in your vehicle and put the air on the recirculate setting.
  • Wear a fitted N95 mask. The EPA recommends using a particulate respirator labeled NIOSH, N95 or P100. Two straps above and below your ears will create a good seal. Masks only protect against particles, so experts advise staying indoors on poor air-quality days.
  • Protect pets. Smoke can also irritate your pet’s eyes and respiratory tract. Animals with heart or lung disease and older pets are especially at risk from smoke and should be watched closely.
  • Track wildfires. Be prepared for wildfires and smoke pollution by tracking fires near you. For example, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s fire weather outlook website maps fire watches and warnings.
  • Monitor your local air quality. Websites, including the EPA’s gov, can explain which air quality levels may be hazardous and how much outdoor activity you should engage in. Apps reporting on local air quality are also available.
  • Pay attention to health symptoms. Children and people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or heart disease need to be especially careful about breathing wildfire smoke. Older adults and pregnant people are also more likely to get sick if they breathe in wildfire smoke.

For More Information

During wildfire season, it’s important to monitor wildfires that may be happening in or around the country to best protect your health and safety.

Monitor local authorities for updates, and contact your health care provider with further questions about how wildfires can impact your health.

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Quit For Your Loved Ones

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

You likely know that smoking is dangerous for your health, and can cause many diseases and serious health conditions, but did you know that you are putting your loved ones at risk as well?

Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke has two forms: the smoke that is exhaled by a smoker and the smoke from a burning cigarette, cigar or pipe. Anyone breathing in any type of smoke is taking in the same dangerous chemicals and toxins as the person who is smoking.

Do you smoke in your home, in your car or at work? If so, you are endangering your friends, co-workers, pets and family members.

Health Risks

Secondhand smoke can cause a variety of health conditions and diseases, including:

  • Heart disease
  • Lung cancer
  • Asthma
  • Middle ear infections in children
  • Chest discomfort, coughing and trouble breathing
  • Pneumonia and bronchitis, especially in children
  • Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Surgeon General Report

The U.S. Surgeon General conducted a report on the effects of secondhand smoke. Here are some of the key findings:

  • There is no safe exposure level to secondhand smoke.
  • Secondhand smoke causes premature death and disease in children and adults who do not smoke.
  • Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at an increased risk for many respiratory conditions and ear problems.
  • Secondhand smoke immediately affects heart and blood circulation in a harmful way.
  • Despite the increasing limitations on smoking in public places, millions are still exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes and workplaces.
  • The only way to prevent secondhand smoke exposure is to prohibit all smoking in that building. Walls and ventilation systems do not prevent secondhand smoke exposure for nonsmokers.

Why Quit?

If you’re looking for motivation to quit for good, do it for your loved ones. You can improve and protect their health along with your own.

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Fire Safety in the Office

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

 

Fires are a serious risk for businesses of all types. It’s up to you to take the proper precautions to keep yourself, your co-workers and our company safe from fire hazards.

 

Lower the Risks of Fire

There are some simple things you can do to prevent fires at our company:

  • Always comply with regulations.
  • Obey “No Smoking” signs.
  • Dispose of cigarettes and matches in the proper receptacles after ensuring they are completely extinguished.
  • Watch for frayed electrical cords and overloaded circuits.
  • Dispose of flammable wastes and scraps by placing them in metal containers.

Combustible Storage

Always store combustible materials in a safe area. Fumes can travel a considerable distance and become ignited by a furnace, stove, electrical equipment or even a lit cigarette. If you need to dispose of flammable liquids, do not pour them down the drain. Educate yourself on the proper method of disposal.

If you have to burn wastepaper, make sure it doesn’t contain explosive materials, such as aerosol or paint.

Inspect Equipment Regularly

Proper maintenance procedures are important to fire safety. If you use electrical equipment or tools, inspect them regularly to make sure they are working correctly. Keep mechanical equipment properly lubricated to avoid excessive friction. Keep spark arrestors on exhaust systems.

Preparing for a Fire

  • Become familiar with the location and operation of firefighting equipment.
  • Learn where fire extinguishers are located and what types of fires they are to be used on.
  • Participate in periodic fire drills to practice fire response procedures.
  • Become familiar with the different types of alarms used in your workplace.
  • Establish an employee meeting place.

When a Fire Breaks Out

  • If the fire alarm rings, always treat it as a true emergency unless you are told ahead of time it is a drill. Just because you do not see smoke or flames does not mean a fire is not present.
  • Always use the stairs instead of the elevator.
  • If the room fills with smoke, stay low to the ground and get out as fast—but as safely—as you can.

Every day you’re on the job, take note of potential fire hazards and report them immediately to your supervisor. Always put safety first!

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Training Your Staff for an Active Shooter Situation

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

 

An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. To best prepare your staff for an active shooter situation, create an emergency action plan (EAP) and conduct training exercises. Together, the EAP and training exercises will prepare your staff to effectively respond and help minimize loss of life.

Components of an EAP

Create the EAP with input from several stakeholders, including HR, your training department (if one exists), facility owners or operators, your property manager, and local emergency responders. An effective EAP includes the following:

  • A preferred method for reporting fires and other emergencies
  • An evacuation policy and procedure
  • Emergency escape procedures and route assignments (e.g., floor plans or safe areas)
  • Contact information for, and responsibilities of, individuals to be contacted under the EAP
  • Information concerning local area hospitals (e.g., the name, telephone number and distance from your location)
  • An emergency notification system to alert various parties of an emergency including the following:
    • Individuals at remote locations within premises
    • Local law enforcement
    • Local area hospitals

Components of Training Exercises

The most effective way to train your staff to respond to an active shooter situation is to conduct mock active shooter training exercises. Local law enforcement is an excellent resource in designing training exercises.

Training components may include the following:

  • Recognizing the sound of gunshots
  • Reacting quickly when gunshots are heard and/or when a shooting is witnessed:
    • Evacuating the area
    • Hiding out
    • Acting against the shooter as a last resort
  • Calling 911
  • Reacting when law enforcement arrives
  • Adopting the survival mindset during times of crisis

Additional Ways to Prepare For and Prevent an Active Shooter Situation

Below are steps you can take to improve preparedness:

  • Ensure your facility has at least two evacuation routes.
  • Post evacuation routes in conspicuous locations throughout your facility.
  • Include local law enforcement and first responders during training exercises.
  • Encourage law enforcement, emergency responders, SWAT teams, K-9 teams and bomb squads to train for an active shooter scenario at your location.

Emergency Numbers

In addition, make sure to have the phone numbers on hand for the following:

  • Emergency services
  • Local emergency information line
  • Local police department
  • Local fire department
  • Local hospital
  • Local FBI field office
  • Facility security

Make sure your facility’s address, including floor, suite and/or room numbers, is also easily accessible, along with your office phone number and extension.

For more information on creating an EAP, contact the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Health and Safety Administration, www.osha.gov.

Preparing for and Managing an Active Shooter Situation

Your HR department and facility managers should engage in planning for emergency situations, including an active shooter scenario. Planning for emergency situations will help to mitigate the likelihood of an incident by establishing the mechanisms described below.

Human Resources’ Responsibilities

The following are responsibilities of HR professionals:

  • Conduct effective employee screening and background checks.
  • Create a system for reporting signs of potentially violent behavior.
  • Make counseling services available to employees.
  • Develop an EAP which includes policies and procedures for dealing with an active shooter situation, as well as after action planning.

Facility Manager Responsibilities

The following are responsibilities of facility mangers:

  • Institute access controls (e.g., keys and security system passcodes).
  • Distribute critical items to appropriate managers and employees, including the following:
    • Floor plans
    • Keys
    • Facility personnel lists and telephone numbers
  • Coordinate with the facility’s security department to ensure the physical security of the location.
  • Assemble crisis kits containing the following:
    • Radios
    • Floor plans
    • Staff roster and staff emergency contact numbers
    • First-aid kits
    • Flashlights
  • Place removable floor plans near entrances and exits for emergency responders.
  • Activate the emergency notification system when an emergency situation occurs.

Reactions of Managers during an Active Shooter Situation

Employees and customers are likely to follow the lead of managers during an emergency situation. During an emergency, managers should be familiar with their EAPs and be prepared to do the following:

  • Take immediate action.
  • Remain calm.
  • Lock and barricade doors.
  • Evacuate staff and customers via a preplanned evacuation route to a safe area.

Assisting Individuals with Special Needs and/or Disabilities

To assist those with special needs and disabilities, ensure that EAPs, evacuation instructions and any other relevant information addresses individuals with specials needs and/or disabilities.

Recognizing Potential Workplace Violence

An active shooter in your workplace may be a current or former employee, or an acquaintance of a current or former employee. Intuitive managers and co-workers may notice characteristics of potentially violent behavior in an employee. Alert your HR department if you believe an employee or co-worker exhibits potentially violent behavior.

Indicators of Potential Violence by an Employee

Employees typically do not just “snap,” but display indicators of potentially violent behavior over time. If these behaviors are recognized, they can often be managed and treated. Potentially violent behaviors by an employee may include one or more of the following:

  • Increased use of alcohol and/or illegal drugs
  • Unexplained increase in absenteeism; vague physical complaints
  • Noticeable decrease in attention to appearance and hygiene
  • Depression and/or withdrawal
  • Resistance and overreaction to changes in policy and procedures
  • Repeated violations of company policies
  • Increased severe mood swings
  • Noticeably unstable, emotional responses
  • Explosive outbursts of anger or rage without provocation
  • Suicidal; comments about “putting things in order”
  • Behavior which suggests paranoia (“everybody is against me”)
  • Increasingly talks of problems at home
  • Escalation of domestic problems into the workplace; talk of severe financial problems
  • Talk of previous incidents of violence
  • Empathy with individuals committing violence
  • Increase in unsolicited comments about firearms, other dangerous weapons and violent crimes

Remember that this list of behaviors is not comprehensive, nor is it intended as a mechanism for diagnosing violent tendencies.

Managing the Consequences of an Active Shooter Situation

After the active shooter has been incapacitated and is no longer a threat, HR and/or management should engage in post-event assessments and activities, including the following:

  • An accounting of all individuals at a designated assembly point to determine who, if anyone, is missing and potentially injured
  • Determining a method for notifying families of individuals affected by the active shooter, including notification of any casualties
  • Assessing the psychological state of individuals at the scene, and referring them to health care specialists accordingly
  • Identifying and filling any critical personnel or operational gaps left in the organization as a result of the active shooter

Lessons Learned

To facilitate effective planning for future emergencies, it is important to analyze the recent active shooter situation and create an after action report. The analysis and reporting contained in this report is useful for the following:

  • Serving as documentation for response activities
  • Identifying successes and failures that occurred during the event
  • Providing an analysis of the effectiveness of the existing EAP
  • Describing and defining a plan for making improvements to the EAP

How to Respond to an Active Shooter

In most cases, there is no pattern or method to active shooters’ selection of victims, and the situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly. Typically, the immediate deployment of law enforcement is required to stop the shooting and mitigate harm to victims.

Because active shooter situations are often over within 10 to 15 minutes—before law enforcement arrives on the scene—individuals must be prepared both mentally and physically to deal with an active shooter situation.

Good Practices for Coping with an Active Shooter Situation

Below are some general practices for coping with an active shooter:

  • Be aware of your environment and any possible dangers.
  • Take note of the two nearest exits in any facility you visit.
  • If you are in an office, stay there and secure the door.
  • If you are in a hallway, get into a room and secure the door.
  • As a last resort, attempt to take the active shooter down. When the shooter is at close range and you cannot flee, your chance of survival is much greater if you try to incapacitate him or her.
  • Call 911 when it is safe to do so.

How to Respond When an Active Shooter is in Your Vicinity

Quickly determine the most reasonable way to protect your own life. Remember that customers and clients are likely to follow the lead of employees and managers during an active shooter situation.

1. Evacuate

If there an accessible escape path, attempt to evacuate the premises:

  • Have an escape route and plan in mind.
  • Evacuate regardless of whether others agree to follow.
  • Leave your belongings behind.
  • Help others escape, if possible.
  • Prevent individuals from entering an area where the active shooter may be.
  • Keep your hands visible so the shooter does not see you as an immediate threat.
  • Follow the instructions of any police officers.
  • Do not attempt to move wounded people.
  • Call 911 when you are safe.

2. Hide Out

If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the active shooter is less likely to find you. Your hiding place should have the following characteristics:

  • Be out of the active shooter’s view
  • Provide protection if shots are fired in your direction (e.g., an office with a closed and locked door)
  • Not trap your or restrict your options for movement

You should also take some basic steps to prevent a shooter from noticing your presence or entering your hiding place:

  • Lock any doors, if possible.
  • Blockade the door with heavy furniture.
  • Silence your cell phone and/or pager.
  • Turn off any source of noise (e.g., radios or televisions).
  • Hide behind large items (e.g., cabinets or desks).
  • Remain as quiet as possible.

If evacuation and hiding are not possible:

  • Remain calm.
  • Dial 911 to alert police to the active shooter’s location, if possible.
  • If you cannot speak, leave the line open and allows the dispatcher to listen.

3. Take action against the active shooter

As a last resort, and only when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to disrupt and/or incapacitate the active shooter by doing the following:

  • Activing as aggressively as possible against him or her
  • Throwing items and improvising weapons
  • Yelling
  • Committing to your actions

How to Respond When Law Enforcement Arrives

Law enforcement’s purpose is to stop the active shooter as soon as possible. Officers will proceed directly to the area in which the last shots were heard:

  • Officers usually arrive in teams of four.
  • Officers may wear regular patrol uniforms or external bulletproof vests, Kevlar helmets and other tactical equipment.
  • Officers may be armed with rifles, shotguns or handguns.
  • Officers may use pepper spray or tear gas to control the situation.
  • Officers may shout commands, and may push individuals to the ground for their safety.

When law enforcement arrives, do the following:

  • Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions.
  • Put down any items in your hands (e.g., bags or jackets).
  • Immediately raise your hands and spread your fingers.
  • Keep your hands visible at all times.
  • Avoid making quick movements toward officers, such as holding on to them for safety.
  • Avoid pointing, screaming or yelling.
  • Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, just proceed in the direction from which officers are entering the premises.

Provide the following information to law enforcement or the 911 operator:

  • Location of the active shooter
  • Number of shooters, if there is more than one
  • Physical description of the shooter(s)
  • Number and type of weapons held by the shooter(s)
  • Number of potential victims at the location

The first officers to arrive to the scene will not stop to help injured persons. Instead, expect rescue teams comprised of additional officers and emergency medical personnel to follow the initial officers. These rescue teams will treat and remove any injured persons. They may also call upon able-bodied individuals to assist in removing the wounded from the premises.

Once you have reached a safe location or an assembly point, you will likely be held in that area by law enforcement until the situation is under control and all witnesses have been identified and questioned. Do not leave until law enforcement authorities have instructed you to do so.

There are other steps you can take to prevent an active shooter situation. For comprehensive articles and posters to safeguard your business and your employees, contact your partners at RISQ Consulting.

Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s, Active Shooter – How to Respond

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April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

 

The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize potential distractions behind the wheel. Review the following article for more information on distracted driving and ways you can help prevent it.

Distracted Driving Overview

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, distracted driving refers to any activity that may divert a motorist’s attention from the road. There are three main types of distractions that can interfere with drivers’ attentiveness behind the wheel, including:

  1. Visual distractions—These distractions involve motorists taking their eyes off the road. Some examples of visual distractions include reading emails or text messages, focusing on vehicle passengers, looking at maps or navigation systems, and observing nearby activities (e.g., accidents, traffic stops or roadside attractions) while driving.
  2. Manual distractions—Such distractions entail motorists removing their hands from the steering wheel. Key examples of manual distractions include texting, adjusting the radio, programming navigation systems, eating, drinking or performing personal grooming tasks (e.g., applying makeup) while driving.
  3. Cognitive distractions—These distractions stem from motorists taking their minds off driving. Primary examples of cognitive distractions include talking on the phone, conversing with vehicle passengers or daydreaming while driving.

Regardless of distraction type, distracted driving is a serious safety hazard that contributes to a significant number of accidents on the road. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that more than 2,800 people are killed and 400,000 are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver each year—equating to approximately eight deaths and 1,095 injuries per day. Considering these findings, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent distracted driving.

Distracted Driving Prevention Tips

Whenever you get behind the wheel, keep these distracted driving prevention measures in mind:

  • Put away your phone. Silence your phone and store it in a location that is out of reach while driving to lower the temptation to check it.
  • Plan your trip before you leave. Program your navigation system prior to hitting the road to get familiar with your journey and feel confident in your route.
  • Don’t fumble with your playlist. Select a radio station or plug in a predetermined playlist before driving to limit the need for music adjustments.
  • Secure passengers. Ensure kids are properly situated in car seats (if needed) with seat belts fastened. Keep pets stationary in the back seat.
  • Avoid multitasking. Never complete additional tasks—such as eating or personal grooming—behind the wheel.
  • Stay focused. Concentrate your mind on the road by keeping distracting conversations to a minimum and looking straight ahead.

For additional driver safety tips, contact us today.

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Smishing Explained

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

 

Most businesses and individuals are familiar with phishing, a cyberattack technique that entails cybercriminals leveraging fraudulent emails to manipulate recipients into sharing sensitive information, clicking malicious links or opening harmful attachments. While these email-based scams remain a pressing concern, a new form of phishing—known as smishing—has emerged over the years, creating additional cyber exposures for businesses and individuals alike.

Smishing relies on the same tactics as phishing. The sole difference between these two cyberattack techniques is that smishing targets victims through text messages rather than emails. As a growing number of individuals utilize their smartphones for both personal and work-related purposes (e.g., interacting with colleagues and clients on mobile applications), smishing has become a rising threat. In fact, recent research found that nearly three-quarters (74%) of organizations experienced smishing incidents in the past year, while just 23% of the workforce recognizes this term.

With these numbers in mind, it’s evident that businesses need to address smishing exposures within their operations. The following article provides an overview of smishing and offers best practices for businesses to protect against this emerging cyberattack technique.

What Is Smishing?

Smishing follows the same format as phishing, using deceiving messages to manipulate recipients. These messages are generally sent via text, but can also be delivered through mobile instant messaging applications (e.g., WhatsApp). In these messages, cybercriminals may implement a wide range of strategies to get their targets to share information or infect their devices with malware. Specifically, they will likely impersonate a trusted or reputable source and urge the recipient to respond with confidential details, download a harmful application or click a malicious link. Here are some examples of common smishing messages:

  • A message claiming to be from a financial institution, saying the recipient’s bank account is locked or experiencing suspicious activity and asking them to click a harmful link to remedy the issue
  • A message impersonating a well-known retailer (e.g., Amazon, Target or Walmart), encouraging the recipient to download a malware-ridden application to receive a gift card or similar prize
  • A message claiming to be from an attorney or law enforcement, saying the recipient is facing legal trouble or criminal charges and urging them to call an unknown number for more information
  • A message impersonating the government, asking the recipient to click a suspicious link for details on their taxes or participation in a federal loan program
  • A message claiming to be a research organization, requesting the recipient download a malicious application to complete an informational survey
  • A message impersonating a delivery service, informing the recipient that they are receiving a package and providing them with a fraudulent link for tracking the item

If a recipient is tricked into doing what a smishing message asks, they could end up unknowingly downloading malware or exposing sensitive information, such as login credentials, debit and credit card numbers or Social Security numbers. From there, cybercriminals may use the information they obtained from smishing for several reasons, such as hacking accounts, opening new accounts, stealing money or retrieving additional data. Since individuals may use their smartphones for work-related tasks, smishing has the potential to impact businesses as well. For example, an individual who falls for a smishing scam could inadvertently give a cybercriminal access to their workplace credentials, allowing the criminal to collect confidential data from the victim’s employer and even steal business funds.

The nature of smishing has made this cyberattack technique a significant threat. This is because individuals are typically not as careful when communicating on their smartphones compared to their computers, often engaging in multiple text conversations at a time (sometimes while distracted or in a rush). After all, research from Experian found that individuals between ages 18-24 exchange around 4,000 texts each month. Considering these findings, individuals may be less wary or observant of a text message from an unknown number than an email, making them more likely to interact with a malicious text.

Furthermore, many individuals falsely assume that their smartphones possess more advanced security features than computers, thus protecting them from harmful messages. However, smartphone security has its limits. Currently, these devices are unable to directly safeguard individuals from smishing attempts, leaving all smartphone users vulnerable. That’s why it’s important for businesses to take steps to protect against smishing.

How to Protect Against Smishing

To effectively minimize smishing exposures and prevent related cyberattacks, businesses should:

  • Conduct employee training—First, businesses should educate employees on what smishing is and how it could affect them. Additionally, employees should be required to participate in routine training regarding smishing detection and prevention. This training should instruct employees to:
  • Watch for signs of smishing within their text messages (e.g., lack of personalization, generic phrasing and urgent requests)
  • Refrain from interacting with or responding to messages from unknown numbers or suspicious senders
  • Avoid clicking links or downloading applications provided within messages
  • Never share sensitive information via text
  • Utilize trusted contact methods (e.g., calling a company’s official phone number) to verify the validity of any request sent over text
  • Report any suspicious messages to the appropriate parties, such as a supervisor or the IT department
  • Ensure adequate bring-your-own-device (BYOD) procedures—Apart from providing smishing training, businesses should establish solid BYOD procedures to ensure employees act accordingly when utilizing their personal smartphones for work-related purposes. Such procedures may include using a private Wi-Fi network, implementing multifactor authentication capabilities, conducting routine device updates and logging out of work accounts after each use. These procedures can help deter smishing attempts and decrease the damages that may ensue from smishing incidents.
  • Implement access controls—Another method for limiting smishing exposures is the use of access controls. By only allowing employees access to information they need to complete their job duties, businesses can reduce the risk of cybercriminals compromising excess data or securing unsolicited funds amid smishing incidents. To further protect their information, businesses should consider leveraging encryption services and establishing secure locations for backing up critical data.
  • Utilize proper security software—Businesses should also make sure company-owned smartphones are equipped with adequate security software. In some cases, this software can halt cybercriminals in their tracks, stopping smishing messages from reaching recipients’ devices and rendering harmful links or malicious applications ineffective. In particular, smartphones should possess antivirus programs, spam-detection systems and message-blocking tools. Security software should be updated as needed to ensure effectiveness.
  • Purchase sufficient coverage—Finally, it’s vital for businesses to secure proper cyber insurance to protect against potential losses stemming from smishing incidents. Businesses should reach out to their trusted insurance professionals to discuss specific coverage needs.

Conclusion

In summary, smishing is a serious cyber threat that both individuals and businesses can’t afford to ignore. By staying aware of smishing tactics and implementing solid mitigation measures, businesses can successfully protect against this rising cyberattack technique, deterring cybercriminals and minimizing associated losses.

For more risk management guidance, contact us today.

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EPLI Claims on the Rise

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

 

As COVID-19 vaccination rates increase and transmission rates of the virus decrease, employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) claims involving retaliation are expected to continue to increase as employees return to the workplace. Data from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) shows that EPLI claims alleging retaliation have increased every year since 2003, with 37,632 workplace retaliation claims filed in 2020. The claims are typically filed in conjunction with discrimination or wrongful termination allegations.

The EEOC anticipates a rise in whistleblower claims from employees bringing forward concerns about health and safety in the workplace. Such claims may include employees concerned about exposure to COVID-19 due to unsafe working conditions or situations where employees allege they were wrongfully denied a request for leave or workplace accommodation.

The cost to defend and settle retaliation lawsuits has increased considerably in recent years, and the EEOC doesn’t anticipate that trend slowing down. With more workers bringing forth COVID-19-related legal actions, businesses are eager to purchase EPLI policies. However, the shift in the market has resulted in higher policy retentions, premium increases and new exclusions specific to COVID-19 exposures, and EPL insurers have started scaling back coverage.

Businesses can be proactive in mitigating EPL claims by:

  • Distributing an employee handbook—The handbook should contain the company’s equal employment opportunity policy and provide employees with steps for reporting discrimination or harassment.
  • Developing a code of ethics policy—Avoid ethical violations by developing and implementing a code of ethics and sharing it with all employees. This can help reduce an employer’s exposure to punitive damages.
  • Instituting handbook auditing procedures—Keep the handbook up to date on the latest law changes by having an audit procedure in place.

As employees return to the office, employers should review their EPL coverage and take proper precautions to avoid EPL claims. For more information on EPLI, contact us today.  

Remote Employees More Isolated Than Ever

As the world enters the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote employees feel more isolated than ever. According to a survey from One Poll and Volley, 7 out of 10 employees who work from home report feeling increasingly isolated after more than a year out of the office. Two-thirds of respondents also report feeling disconnected from their teams, with a similar percentage reporting they work directly with someone they could not pick out of a lineup.

Loneliness can result in poor mental health outcomes, such as depression or anxiety. Employers should be concerned that isolation can lead to increased stress levels and poor decision-making, both of which can hurt business. However, it can be difficult to detect symptoms of isolation.

To better thrive in remote work situations, employers should encourage employees to:

  • Reach out to coworkers. Utilizing video and audio calls throughout the week to communicate and brainstorm with coworkers can increase feelings of collaboration and inclusion. It can also help teams communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.
  • Work outside the house once a week. As more COVID-19 vaccinations are administered and restrictions are lifted, it can be helpful to work outside the home at least one day per week. A library, café or co-working space can help fight feelings of isolation.
  • Go outside for lunch. Taking a break and enjoying a nice walk during lunch can help bring fresh energy back to work. Making time for movement outside or inside can help boost endorphins.
  • Make plans for after work. Schedule time with friends and family after work to feel less lonely. Having plans can also ensure employees don’t overwork or get burnt out.

Employers should be proactive in reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation in remote workers to improve morale and business outcomes. For more information, contact us today.

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Flash Mob Robberies

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

Organized retail crime (ORC) refers to large-scale shoplifting incidents or other illegal (and sometimes violent) acts conducted by groups of criminals with the purpose of stealing significant amounts of merchandise. ORC has become a growing concern for retail businesses in recent years. In fact, the National Retail Federation (NRF) reported that ORC costs retail businesses an average of $700,000 for every $1 billion in sales. This surge in ORC has largely been caused by criminals looking to capitalize on the accelerated shift to e-commerce brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, criminals are stealing large amounts of goods and reselling them to unsuspecting online shoppers at reduced prices.

One ORC method that has recently come to light is flash mob robberies. Also called “smash-and-grab” robberies, these incidents involve a group of criminals swarming a retail business all at once (sometimes with weapons), overwhelming staff and law enforcement on the scene, and attempting to steal mass amounts of merchandise. Flash mob robberies have become more common, costly and violent over the past year, drawing widespread concern from retail businesses and their employees.

The following article provides more information on this ORC method, details about the latest flash mob robberies and possible measures to prevent such incidents.

What Are Flash Mob Robberies?

Flash mob robberies are not crimes of opportunity. Rather, these incidents are planned ahead of time by a coordinated group of criminals—whether it’s five or 100 people. According to data from the NRF, 79% of retail businesses have experienced multiple-offender crimes in the last year, with 10% of these incidents involving characteristics of flash mob robberies. In recent incidents, flash mob robbery plans have often resulted from criminals communicating over social media platforms.

When such an incident occurs, the group of criminals typically approaches the target retail business all at once, making it more difficult for employees or law enforcement to stop them. These criminals may simply rely on the size of their group to carry out the robbery without being apprehended or potentially leverage weapons and acts of violence to further deter anyone from intervening in their plan. For instance, criminals may utilize the following tactics:

  • Breaking storefront glass or display cases
  • Carrying guns, knives, sledgehammers or crowbars
  • Engaging in physical assault (e.g., punching, slapping, kicking or biting)
  • Using pepper spray or other chemical irritants

After swarming the target retail business, the group of criminals usually attempts to steal large amounts of merchandise quickly before promptly fleeing the scene. In some cases, certain criminals may be responsible for waiting outside the business with a vehicle (or several vehicles) to help the rest of the group exit the premises as fast as possible following the robbery.

Because flash mob robberies are group activities, it’s rare for every criminal involved in such incidents to get caught. Although a handful of criminals may be apprehended on the scene, the number of people involved in these robberies makes it easier for criminals to escape without consequences—thus allowing them to plan and be involved in future incidents.

Recent Flash Mob Robberies

Retail businesses across the country have been impacted by flash mob robberies, including independent shops and large corporations. Here are some of the latest incidents that have taken place:

  • Nordstrom—A group of five criminals sprayed a security guard with a chemical irritant before stealing $25,000 worth of handbags from a Nordstrom store in Los Angeles, California. In another incident, 80 to 90 criminals targeted a different Nordstrom store in San Francisco, California—utilizing pepper spray, crowbars, knives and firearms to attack employees and fleeing the scene with $100,000 worth of goods. Only three individuals were apprehended amid the incident.
  • Louis Vuitton—In Chicago, Illinois, a group of 14 criminals stole over $120,000 worth of merchandise in under 60 seconds from a Louis Vuitton store. The criminals physically assaulted employees who tried to stop them and leveraged three escape vehicles to swiftly exit the premises.
  • Sunglass Hut—A group of four criminals physically assaulted employees at a Sunglass Hut in Monterey, California, before stealing nearly $30,000 worth of goods and promptly fleeing the scene.
  • Best Buy—In a suburb of Minneapolis, Minnesota, between 10 and 15 criminals invaded a Best Buy store and stole a range of electronics—including televisions, computers and tablets. A similar incident involving 20 to 30 criminals also took place at a different Best Buy store in a nearby suburb.
  • Jewelers—A group of nine criminals used sledgehammers to smash display cases and steal a variety of jewelry from Iceberg Diamonds, a store located in Concord, California. The criminals did so in less than one minute. In another incident, 30 to 40 criminals targeted Sam’s Jewelers in San Jose, California, also smashing display cases with sledgehammers and stealing several products.

Prevention Strategies

Flash mob robberies can carry numerous consequences for impacted retail businesses. In addition to lost merchandise, property damage and substantial recovery costs, these incidents can seriously threaten the safety of retail employees and other customers at the scene.

As such, it’s critical for retail businesses to utilize proper strategies for preventing and responding to flash mob robberies. Some risk management measures for consideration include the following:

  • Train employees. Be sure to train retail employees on how to detect and respond to potential signs of a flash mob robbery. These signs may include a sudden emergence of excess vehicles in the store parking lot, a large group of people congregating outside the store or quickly heading toward the storefront, and customers who look like they may be carrying dangerous items or weapons. Employees should be stationed throughout the store during their shifts to be able to detect these signs. Furthermore, train employees on ways to safely mitigate violent incidents. Employees should know to never put their personal safety at risk to stop a robbery.
  • Utilize security systems. In addition to training employees, make sure to equip the store with various security systems to help deter criminals. This may include security cameras, laminated glass, merchandise sensors and alarm systems. It’s also important to consider security elements that can hinder criminals from fleeing the scene of a flash mob robbery, such as fog systems, strobe lights and roll-down gates. Hiring dedicated security personnel may also offer further protection.
  • Ensure proper product placement. To prevent criminals from stealing high-value merchandise, it’s best to place these goods in elevated areas that can’t be easily reached without assistance. To minimize overall losses amid a flash mob robbery, place limited amounts of each product on store shelves and keep the excess inventory in a secure area.
  • Work with law enforcement. Build strong relationships with local law enforcement and ORC prevention coalitions and follow any guidance they provide for avoiding flash mob robberies. Also, consider asking these parties to help monitor social media platforms for potential ORC plans or other suspicious activity.
  • Establish an emergency response plan. In the event that a flash mob robbery does occur, it’s crucial to have response protocols and lockdown procedures in place. Be sure to create a documented emergency response plan to minimize losses and protect employees (and customers) amid such an incident. Although specific response plan measures may vary between stores, employees should be instructed to contact the appropriate authorities if they detect signs of a flash mob robbery. When a robbery begins, employees should know how to implement the necessary security systems, shut down the store and protect themselves from harm. This response plan should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed.
  • Secure adequate coverage. Lastly, it’s critical to ensure the proper protection against losses related to flash mob robberies by purchasing sufficient coverage. Commercial property insurance typically offers reimbursement to retail businesses that experience losses from theft or ORC. Consult a trusted insurance professional for further information on coverage solutions related to flash mob robberies.

For more industry-specific risk management guidance, contact us today.

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Creating A Psychologically Safe Work Environment

This article is from RISQ Consulting’s Zywave client portal, a resource available to all RISQ Consulting clients. Please contact your Benefits Consultant or Account Executive for more information or for help setting up your own login.

Several work dynamics can make the team successful. One of the most crucial ones is psychological safety. Being psychologically safe means you feel secure in taking risks and being vulnerable in front of others. In a work environment that fosters this security, you believe you won’t be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns or mistakes.

This article explores the concept and benefits of psychological safety and how you can contribute to and be part of a positive and psychologically safe work environment.

The Stages of Psychological Safety

According to research, you may progress through four sequential stages of psychological safety:

  1. Inclusion safety—You feel safe and accepted to be who you are in the work environment.
  2. Learner safety—You feel safe to learn, ask questions and experiment. You’re also open to giving and receiving feedback.
  3. Contributor safety—You feel safe to make a valuable contribution using your skills and gifts.
  4. Challenger safety—You feel safe to challenge the status quo when you see room for change or improvement.

After progressing through those four stages, you are likely comfortable speaking up in the workplace.

The Importance of Psychological Safety

Creating a workplace environment in which employees feel comfortable taking risks is essential to workplace innovation. Psychological safety is crucial because it:

  • Enhances your workplace engagement
  • Improves your well-being
  • Inspires creativity and ideas
  • Fosters an inclusive culture

Creating a psychologically safe work environment is intentional, but it can positively impact you and the overall work culture. Achieving this type of security can also have unique challenges in remote and hybrid workplaces, as that culture extends beyond the physical workplace.

Contributing to the Work Environment

Psychological safety typically hinges on organizational leadership, but there are ways that every employee can challenge or influence workplace cultural norms. Consider the following ways you can help support a psychologically safe work environment:

  • Be curious. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for peer or manager feedback. Adopt a learning mindset by accepting you don’t have all the facts and can learn from others.
  • Listen actively. Active listeners can make others feel valued by avoiding distractions (e.g., phones) and demonstrating understanding during meetings. If you’re working remotely, turn on your camera in meetings so it’s apparent you’re paying attention and engaged.
  • Communicate effectively. It’s essential to set clear expectations for timelines and goals. If you’re working in a hybrid work environment, it’s even more crucial to check in often to lower the chances for miscommunication.
  • Have an open mind. Approaching tasks or challenges from a different angle can help bring perspective. Consider feedback to be constructive and meant to strengthen the team’s ideas or processes. Also, think about how you’re responding to feedback or input. It comes down to being open to ideas or views that differ from your own.
  • Foster a safe environment. Co-workers may not speak up due to the fear of being judged. To help encourage a psychologically safe environment, be sure not to interrupt and never blame others. The goal is to ensure people feel like their out-of-the-box suggestions are encouraged and considered by the team.
  • Practice your awareness. During meetings or conversations, pay attention to how your words, actions and other nonverbal cues resonate with others. In a remote or hybrid work environment, video calls can help with observing how you’re being received.
  • Recognize courageous acts. It’s vital to give praise or acknowledge when a co-worker shows vulnerability, offers a new idea or shares a mistake. It can be challenging for people to speak up, so it’s important to make sure they don’t feel embarrassed or unheard after expressing vulnerability.
  • Support others. If your work or opinions are often embraced, use your influence to empower others who may be underrepresented. Some simple ways to do that are to highlight their accomplishments to others or recommend them for projects or assignments.

A psychologically safe work environment centers on respect. Practice these steps personally and speak up or intervene if you see others not being respectful. The safer the work environment, the stronger and more successful you and your co-workers can be.

Conclusion

Psychological safety is a key work dynamic that takes time to build but just moments to destroy. It comes down to being human in your work environment and creating opportunities for open feedback and dialogue. If working in a remote or hybrid work environment, you’ll have to be even more intentional with showing appreciation for co-workers and acceptance of their ideas, thoughts and discussions.

Talk to your manager if you have concerns or questions about psychological safety in your work environment.

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