Learn how to approach a volatile and unpredictable election season with an eye towards keeping your personnel safe and your operations running smoothly.
|
September 20, 2024 INSIDE THIS ARTICLE, YOU'LL FIND: |
In today’s polarized political climate, election season brings not only the promise of change but also a heightened risk of unrest. Political tensions across the country are more volatile than ever, with deep divisions driving protests, demonstrations, and, in some cases, violence. Events like the January 6th insurrection at the U.S. Capitol reflect just how quickly these tensions can escalate during election season and beyond. The spread of misinformation and disinformation fuels this instability, making it even more critical for businesses to prioritize the safety and security of their people and operations.
In an environment where tensions run high, preparedness is key. Proactive planning can help organizations stay safe and minimize risks during times of heightened political activity. By understanding the specific risks that elections pose and implementing clear strategies to mitigate them, businesses can ensure the safety and well-being of their employees while maintaining business continuity.
Threats Specific to U.S. Elections for Businesses
Elections in the U.S., particularly in the last few cycles, are fraught with uncertainty, and the risks extend far beyond the ballot box. Businesses, executives, and individuals can become unwitting targets of election-related turmoil. To protect people and operations, it is essential to understand the various threats that can surface during these politically charged times.
The following are some of the most pressing threats that arise during election seasons:
- Cyber threats: The digital landscape becomes increasingly dangerous as hackers and cybercriminals seek to exploit vulnerabilities. Hackers may target businesses with phishing attacks and ransomware aiming to steal sensitive information or disrupt daily operations. Given the heightened political stakes, politically motivated hacking — such as attempts to manipulate public opinion or sabotage corporate networks — can have far-reaching consequences. Businesses must strengthen their cybersecurity defenses to protect against potential attacks.
- Misinformation: “Fake news,” doctored social media posts, and disinformation campaigns can spark confusion, foster distrust in institutions, and incite unrest. For businesses, this misinformation can create communication challenges, influence customer behavior, or even lead to security threats if certain businesses are mentioned.
- Civil unrest: As political divisions intensify, protests and demonstrations become more common during election seasons. While many gatherings are peaceful, tensions can escalate, leading to confrontations between protesters and law enforcement, or opposing groups. In some instances, what begins as a peaceful demonstration can quickly devolve into violence — and in the United States, that may include an active shooter situation.
These election-related threats can have far-reaching implications for businesses, from minor operational disruptions to significant security risks. For companies located near polling sites, government buildings, or areas prone to protests, the possibility of civil unrest presents a real and immediate danger, particularly in battleground states. Traffic disruptions, building damage, and the risk of violence can make it difficult or unsafe for employees to work or travel.
In extreme cases, businesses may be forced to shut down temporarily, either due to physical threats or as a precautionary measures to protect their employees. This underscores the importance of having a plan in place to mitigate these risks, ensuring that operations can continue as smoothly as possible in the face of potential disruptions.
Preparing for Demonstrations, Discord, and Civil Unrest
Preparing for potential demonstrations and civil unrest during election periods requires businesses to adopt a proactive approach to safety and security. Understanding the political climate and identifying high-risk areas, such as battleground states and government buildings, is the first step in formulating a response plan. By anticipating possible flashpoints, companies can take preemptive measures to protect employees, secure facilities, and minimize operational disruptions in the event of unrest.
Developing a Safety Plan
A well-thought-out election season safety plan is one of the most critical steps businesses can take to mitigate risks. This plan should be thorough and cover potential scenarios, from peaceful demonstrations to violent unrest, ensuring that employees are not only aware of the procedures but are also trained to act accordingly in real time.
- Evacuation procedures: Businesses need to define clear evacuation routes and rally points in the event of a protest or riot near their office. Ensure employees know how to exit the building safely, avoiding areas of potential unrest.
- Lockdown protocols: In case evacuation isn’t an option, businesses should have lockdown procedures that outline how employees should secure themselves inside the building. This could include locking doors, closing blinds, and remaining in designated safe areas until the threat passes.
- Emergency response strategies: Establish communication channels and response teams that can quickly assess the situation and act. A mass communication platform, one where message blasts can go out to all employees or those in a geofenced area, is particularly valuable here. In addition, update emergency contacts regularly, and ensure employees know who to reach out to for guidance in case of a security threat.
Integrating Safety Measures
Election-related safety protocols should be seamlessly integrated into a business's larger continuity plan, addressing how to operate effectively under potentially dangerous or unstable conditions. This not only safeguards the workforce but also minimizes disruptions to business operations.
- Physical security: Consider reinforcing physical security measures such as installing security cameras, hiring extra security personnel, or strengthening access control systems, especially for offices located near potential protest areas.
- Coordination with local authorities: Maintain ongoing communication with local law enforcement and government agencies to stay updated on potential risks. Being proactive about gathering intelligence can help businesses respond more effectively to emerging threats.
- Employee education: Regular safety drills and training sessions should be conducted, so all staff members are familiar with emergency procedures. This preparedness will reduce confusion and panic if unrest arises and foster a sense of security and confidence within the workforce.
Assessing Workplace Climate
It’s equally important to foster a respectful and civil workplace environment, especially during politically charged periods. Political divisions can seep into the workplace, creating tension between employees and disrupting the professional atmosphere. A company’s leadership must take proactive steps to assess and manage this "temperature" without infringing on employees' rights to express their views.
- Maintaining civility: Encourage a workplace culture that values respectful dialogue, even when opinions differ. Establish clear policies on appropriate workplace behavior during election season and set expectations that political discussions should be civil and respectful.
- Open dialogue: Creating a space where employees feel heard and respected can reduce the likelihood of conflict. Regularly checking in with teams to gauge the emotional and political climate in the workplace can help managers address issues before they escalate.
- Handling conflict: Provide guidance on how to handle politically charged disagreements or tensions between employees. Training supervisors and managers to mediate these situations can ensure that the workplace remains a safe and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of political beliefs.
By developing a comprehensive safety plan, integrating proactive security measures, and promoting a respectful work environment, businesses can maintain operations and protect their workforce during the unpredictability of election season. These best practices are not just a short-term fix — they should become a standard part of any business continuity plan, especially in an era of heightened political polarization.
Ensuring Polling Site Safety for Employees
Election day brings not only civic responsibility but also the potential for security risks, particularly in swing states where political tensions are high. As an employer, it’s important to encourage safe voting practices and offer the necessary support to ensure that your employees can participate in the electoral process without compromising their safety. Here are some ways businesses can foster a secure environment for employees during this period:
Safe Voting Practices
Promoting safe voting practices among employees can greatly reduce their exposure to potential risks associated with crowded polling sites. Encourage your workforce to consider early voting, which often has shorter lines and less tension compared to election day itself. Similarly, mail-in ballots provide a safe and convenient alternative, allowing employees to avoid in-person voting altogether. Both options help employees sidestep the peak voting hours that often see larger crowds and, at times, protest activity near polling locations.
Employees should also be advised to vote during off-peak hours — such as after lunch but before the end of the work day — to further minimize their exposure to any large gatherings or unexpected protests.
Policies for Time Off or Work from Home
A proactive approach to employee safety during election season includes creating policies that provide time off to vote, or allowing employees to work from home on election day. By giving employees the flexibility to vote when polling sites are less crowded, businesses can reduce their stress and help them avoid potential unrest that might arise later in the day. Offering half-day leave or flexible hours during election periods is an easy way to ensure employees can cast their votes safely and return to work without concern.
Security Considerations
While voting is a personal act, businesses can still play an active role in promoting security for employees who visit polling sites. Providing guidance on basic safety precautions can go a long way towards protecting your workforce. Encourage employees to be vigilant, maintain situational awareness, and avoid engaging in political conversations at polling sites that could escalate tensions.
Moreover, businesses can consider using internal communication platforms or apps to share real-time updates about any potential unrest or risks at or near polling locations. By keeping employees informed about the latest developments — such as road closures, protests, or changes in polling station security — employers can help them make informed decisions on when and where to vote safely.
Additionally, remind employees to have emergency contacts readily available and to know the fastest route to leave a polling site if a situation escalates. For businesses in areas with higher risks, providing specific guidelines about which polling stations may be safer or advising employees to avoid certain locations altogether can be invaluable.
FAQs: Common Concerns About Election Season Safety
How can businesses support employees' mental health during the heightened tensions of election season?
Businesses can offer resources such as counseling services, stress management workshops, or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to support employees’ mental well-being. Encouraging open dialogue and providing a supportive environment can also help employees manage anxiety related to political unrest and uncertainty.
How can businesses ensure supply chain continuity during periods of civil unrest?
Businesses should evaluate their supply chains for vulnerabilities and establish contingency plans for potential disruptions. This can include diversifying suppliers, stockpiling critical materials, or arranging for alternative transportation routes in case of roadblocks or protests affecting logistics.
Is it advisable to increase security personnel during election season?
Depending on your business location and its proximity to potential unrest areas, increasing security staff can be a prudent measure. Additional personnel can help monitor threats, ensure access control, and manage lockdowns or evacuations if needed.
Standing by to Support
The Global Guardian team is standing by to support your duty of care and security requirements with a comprehensive suite of solutions. To learn more about our services, complete the form below or call us at + 1 (703) 566-9463.
