Workplace Violence in Casinos

Workplace violence is a frequent hazard for casino employees. With drunk customers and guests who may lose money, assaults very likely will occur. HG’s Legal Resources Department states that casino workers could potentially face the direct wrath of a drunken customer, or they could end up as an innocent bystander if a fight breaks out. Either way they are in line of danger. Robberies are also a hazard for casinos due to the money that both the guests and workers have on hand. Casino employees are always in danger of becoming involved in potentially dangerous situation. So how can they protect themselves and others?

Preventing Violence

Each department working within the casinos, whether it be surveillance, table game operations, and security must all work together to keep the environment safe for both guest and employees. Most casinos operate with at least 2,000 active surveillance cameras on their property.

According to Pinnacol Assurance, a workers compensation agency, about 40% of workplace violence incidents are instigated by an angry customer. Believe it or not sometimes, the customer is not always right. Employee training can help to prevent situations from becoming violent. Training such as:

• Safety Training should include how to recognize alarming behavior and what steps can be taken to prevent the behavior from turning violent.
• Situational Awareness Training is being conscious of your surroundings in a way that helps you to quickly determine the context and relevance of unfolding events. This helps you to know who or what will be helpful if a situation becomes violent

Responding to Violence

There is only so much that can be done to prevent violent situations from taking place. Employees should also know how to respond to violence. It is important for employees to know some de-escalation techniques, especially if there is no way out. Helpful de-escalation techniques could include:

• Communication and respect
• Cooperation
• Listening and responding with non-aggressive body language

If de-escalation doesn’t seem to be working, the next best thing is to get everyone to safety. Every workplace should have an emergency action plan or crisis response plan. These plans describe the procedure(s) to follow during an emergency, which would include an act of violence.

For more information or if you have more questions, please visit Hard Hat Training Series. We have a Violence in The Workplace training course. It includes a broader view of the work industries as well. Good luck and stay safe!