General News
7 September, 2024
Business tips to beat aggro
A rise in aggressive behaviour in Horsham CBD has prompted business leaders to seek specialist training and review their security measures.
West Vic Business representative Stacey Taig said one of her members had complained of an increase in incidents of "aggressive behaviour from unstable individuals" frequenting the area.
Now police are being brought in to assist business owners de-escalate risks in potentially dangerous situations.
"We understand this is an issue facing many of you," Ms Taig told members.
"West Vic Business has contacted Horsham Police to follow up the potential for some assistance regarding this matter.
"As a result, the Proactive Police Unit will be contacting us directly to speak further about the possibility of some form of training to help business owners and staff de-escalate a situation such as this, should it occur."
Ms Taig said it also was important that employers understood their OH&S obligations in providing a safe workplace for their employees and customers.
She recommended they develop some form of procedural manual that covered off potential incidents.
"Whilst it is difficult to pre-empt a situation like this, or predict the behaviour of others, it is important that you take the lead where at all possible," she said.
Business owners can learn more about conflict resolution by visiting www.police.vic.gov.au/responding-to-aggressive-customers