Safeguarding Your Business During Riots
8th August 2024
Occasionally, peaceful protests can escalate into violent and dangerous situations.
Businesses may face increased risks during periods of public protests and social unrest, which can threaten employees, disrupt operations, and damage property.
Prioritise Employee Protection
On the days leading up to the event, or when civil unrest, volatile demonstrations and public disorder are likely, ensure all staff are fully briefed. Share your concerns with your staff, emphasise the importance of situational awareness, and provide guidance to ensure employee and customer safety.
- Urge employees to avoid city centres and areas where protests may occur. Promote virtual meetings where possible, to avoid travel to these areas
- Anticipate travel disruptions, check local government, news websites and social media for official information regarding road and rail closures
- Consider allowing casual dress for those having to attend work. Discourage staff from wearing clothing bearing your company name or logo, particularly if your business is associated with industry sectors targeted by demonstrators, such as finance or eCommerce
- Ensure all employees are familiar with the companies emergency, security, evacuation and invacuation procedures
- Ask employees to update their contact information, so they can be easily reached
- Your business premises should have a strong, visible management presence, who should identify themselves to the police in the event of any trespassing or criminal behaviour
- All staff should be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security or the police
Always Report Crime to the Police
Always report crime to police. This allows police to capture the data and understand the full scale of the crime, which in turn informs their resources and tactics to tackle it. When a crime is taking place, dial 999 in an emergency.
You can also report to the Police on 101 or alternatively, you can report online, here
