Many retail workers are worried about safety issues when they’re on the clock, an inaugural Retail Worker Safety Report from Motorola Solutions determined.
The report noted that retailers still rely on low-tech communication when confronted with store emergencies. Survey respondents said they access landline telephones, 58%, and PA systems, 45%, to report store safety concerns, while 28% resort to yelling if they have to inform coworkers of an incident. Motorola pointed out that low-tech communications don’t facilitate a quick connection with public safety officials should store employees need immediate help.
Yet, tech applications can play a role in safety initiatives. Three-quarters of survey respondents said their stores currently incorporate video security systems, while 64% pointed to workplace alarm systems and 44% pointed to merchandise sensors. However, many retail employees believe that technology could make them feel safer, with specific innovations wanted including artificial intelligence applied to detect guns effectively, for 42%, access control systems to lock doors when threats are detected, for 36%, wearable/mounted panic buttons to signal for help, for 30%, and license plate readers to identify vehicles associated with criminal activity, for 30%.
Some retailers are updating safety and security protocols to support preparedness, Motorola maintained, as survey respondents reported progress in awareness and action due to safety concerns and losses. In that case, 36% of respondents said their employer has introduced a new worker safety measure in the past 12 months, with top changes including increased emergency response training, at 49%, more timely communication about in-store incidents, at 41%, and additional security personnel, at 33%.
Employee concern about safety can have significant consequences, as 26% of respondents said they have considered leaving retail due to safety concerns.
“The holiday bustle can be a stressful time for retailers,” said Sharon Hong, vp, ecosystem solutions at Motorola. “Sales associates and managers shouldn’t have to be concerned about their safety on top of everything else. Our report found that retail workers are looking for more technology that can help them be better aware of safety threats, spot illicit activity and communicate quickly and seamlessly with other employees and first responders should an incident arise.”
