In this episode, we tackle the critical topic of safety and security, emphasizing the manager’s responsibility in ensuring employee well-being. We can’t prevent every issue, but we can certainly be vigilant in order to minimize the risk. Violence can come from many sources both internally and externally and while crime in the veterinary world has been on the rise, our education and training about security measures hasn’t kept up. 

Our guest, Kim Mackey, CVPM, shares her unique perspective as a parole supervisor for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and a part-time receptionist in a veterinary hospital. With her guidance, we explore ways to help employees comprehend the purpose behind safety measures and procedures and promote a proactive approach. Additionally, Kim addresses the fact that we all make mistakes and emphasizes the importance of knowing how to respond after a mistake has been made. 

 

Show Notes:

[2:32] - The most common crimes in the veterinary industry are theft and assault. The increase in assault came after the pandemic.

[3:28] - Another crime on the rise involves computer security like scammers and phishing.

[5:50] - Violent crimes and assault are a problem we aren’t generally prepared for.

[6:58] - Security training isn’t very exciting and employees may not really see the benefit. Kim shares some strategies for making educating the staff fun.

[8:45] - Although dreaded by a lot of staff members, role playing is effective. Practice breeds diligence.

[10:21] - When people are in a threatening situation, stress levels rise and it impacts reactions and critical thinking.

[12:58] - Consistency is key in regards to following safety and security procedures. Reward those who are following procedures and have something in place for repeat offenders.

[14:31] - You have to create the culture in your practice that security is important.

[16:41] - We need to make sure that employees know that their safety is important to us.

[18:19] - Kim explains that veterinary practices and hospitals are easy targets.

[20:17] - Domestic issues also arise and many employees tend to feel uncomfortable bringing these to a manager’s attention.

[24:00] - In these situations, managers might feel like it is tricky to navigate setting policies. But we can’t be afraid to tip the scale if it impacts the safety of the team.

[26:57] - There are resources in your community that could help with training and developing a security minded culture.

[29:34] - You don’t have to spend a lot of time on it, but do need safety and security training and reminders consistently.

 

Thank you for listening. Remember you are not in this alone. Visit our website for more resources.

 

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