The state-level Department of Human Resources (DHR) sees many different cases each day. Many of the cases can involve violence or any other kind of assistance for someone needing counseling. For this reason, social workers at DHR are often in the line of fire during or after a traumatic experience. For this reason, a holdup switch system from CRS Notify would be essential for DHR social workers.

Why Use a Holdup Switch System for DHR?

There are a few scenarios where a holdup button for DHR is a total necessity.

One scenario where a holdup switch system for DHR would be useful would be in an assault situation. Because a therapy session could potentially have high emotions, a holdup switch system from CRS Notify would be essential.

Another scenario where a holdup switch system for DHR would be useful would be if a worker in the office needs help quickly. Perhaps a social worker is working alone with a patient who suddenly has a medical emergency. With the CRS Notify holdup switch system, all people connected to the network would be made aware instantly that there is an issue that needs addressing.

A final scenario where a holdup switch system would be useful is in the case of imminent danger to social workers and clients. A staff member could activate the holdup switch system, alerting authorities to the ongoing issue. A CRS Notify holdup switch system is connected to 911 via E911 integration. This bypasses the alarm company altogether during an emergency. This saves valuable time when seconds matter the most.

How to Avoid Workplace Violence

There is no foolproof way to entirely avoid workplace violence. The best way to be prepared is to be proactive, rather than reactive to a potentially dangerous situation.

All those who work in DHR need to be made aware of any typical situation that could happen, and how to work through them should they arise. Again, employees should be proactive rather than reactive.

Incident Response Plan

An incident response plan is just as important as a holdup switch system for DHR. How does the staff need to react in case of emergency? Depending on the type of emergency, it may not be advisable to hit the holdup switch system right away. In fact, many safety and security personnel will advise against activating the holdup switch system during an active emergency if it is not safe to do so.

An incident response plan would be especially advisable for DHR offices that regularly see patients with limited mobility or mental abilities. What happens when the office needs evacuation?

In the case of an active shooter, many places will recommend run-hide-fight. Running from the situation is the first thing that people should do. If it is unsafe to run, then people need to hide in a safe place. If all else fails, fighting the assailant should be a last resort.

Conclusion

Including a holdup switch for DHR in every incident response plan is essential. A CRS Notify holdup switch system includes the option to raise two alert levels. Our technology-driven holdup switch systems also instantly alert everyone within a network if an alert has been raised. CRS Notify holdup switch systems can also be directly connected to 911. This bypasses the security company altogether during an emergency, when seconds matter the most.

Still Unsure About a Holdup Switch System?

Contact us for more information to make the best decision for your holdup switch system.

info@communityresponsesystems.com or 800-533-7201 M-F 8-5 pm CST