Retail workplaces are vibrant, bustling hubs of activity, but beneath the surface lies a persistent danger: escalating violence and security threats.
Imagine walking into your store, greeting your team with a smile, only to learn the neighboring store just had a smash-and-grab robbery. With reports from the National Retail Federation indicating that shoplifting events involving violence have increased by over one-third (35%) over the past year, the need for a robust safety framework to protect retail workers has never been more pressing.
Enter the New York Retail Worker Safety Act of 2024—designed to transform the safety landscape for retail, lone and at-risk workers. Here’s everything retailers need to know about this groundbreaking legislation and how Aware360’s innovative safety solutions can make a meaningful impact in ensuring a secure and supportive work environment.
What is the Retail Worker Safety Act in NY?
The Retail Worker Safety Act of 2024 is a landmark legislation aimed at significantly enhancing the safety and well-being of retail employees across New York State. This act mandates that all retail businesses with ten or more employees develop and implement “comprehensive workplace violence prevention policy and training programs” as a measure to address the rising tide of violence and aggression faced by retail workers. Its primary purpose is to create a safer working environment by setting clear standards for safety practices, training, and emergency response mechanisms. The overarching goal is to ensure that retail workers can perform their duties without fear of violence or aggression, thereby creating a more secure and supportive workplace.
To achieve these goals, the act requires employers to:
- Adopt and implement a workplace violence prevention policy: Retail employers must detail the factors that place employees at risk, methods to prevent incidents, and provide information on federal and state laws concerning workplace violence. The NY Department of Labor is developing a Model Workplace Violence Prevention Policy and Model Guidelines to assist retailers. Employers can tailor their workplace violence prevention policy to meet the specific needs of their retail environment, as long as it meets the minimum standards outlined in the model policy.
- Provide annual interactive training for employees: This includes measures such as “de-escalation tactics, active shooter drills, emergency procedures, and instruction on the use of panic buttons and other emergency devices.”
- Install panic buttons: Employers with more than 500 retail employees nationwide must provide employees with panic buttons to alert authorities during emergencies. The Act clarifies that “mobile phone-based panic buttons may only be installed on employer-provided equipment, and wearable and mobile phone-based panic buttons can not track employee locations except when the panic button is triggered.”
The requirements are effective March 3, 2025 (except the panic button requirement, which comes into effect January 1, 2027). The New York legislature is expected to consider amendments to the Act that could, if passed, extend the initial effective date to June 2, 2025. This comprehensive approach not only protects workers but also contributes to a more efficient and positive retail environment, benefiting both employees and customers.
Why was this act implemented?
The Retail Worker Safety Act was implemented in response to a significant and alarming escalation in workplace violence within retail settings—from defusing a heated argument between customers to dealing with a shoplifter who threatens them. 88% of retailers reported that such incidents have become more aggressive and violent compared to the previous year. This surge in violence is not unique to New York; states like California have also enacted laws mandating workplace violence prevention measures across various industries to combat this rising threat. These legislations aim to provide a structured and proactive approach to ensuring safety.
What are some common hazards in the retail workplace?
Retail workers face numerous hazards daily, ranging from physical injury to social and criminal risks. Here’s a breakdown of these common hazards:
- Workplace injuries: Workers regularly operate forklifts and machinery to move goods in retail and warehouse spaces. Physical demands include heavy lifting, overhead reaching, and repetitive movements during inventory management. Common hazards also include slips and falls, equipment-related injuries from pallet jacks and conveyor systems, and musculoskeletal strain from prolonged standing and moving.
- Outdoor risks: Curbside staff walk alone to parking lots in low-light conditions and harsh weather. Staff make multiple trips carrying valuable merchandise through unsecured areas, leaving them vulnerable to violence or winter weather risk like slippery walkways..
- Social risks and interpersonal violence: Retail workers often interact directly with the public, making them vulnerable to harassment, threats, and assault from coworkers, shoplifters, looters and other forms of aggression. Pop-up shops in high-traffic or urban areas lack permanent security systems. This makes them targets for theft and vandalism.
- Aggressive customers: Interactions with aggressive, violent, or disgruntled customers can lead to verbal or physical altercations. This includes incidents of verbal and sexual harassment, which are unfortunately common in retail settings.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: Long working hours, repetitive shift work, and inadequate rest periods contribute to worker fatigue.
- Criminal risks: Managing high-value goods or large cash amounts increases the risk of theft and robbery. Retail employees may also face added dangers such as robbery or assault when walking to their cars after work, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas.
- Working alone: Many retail jobs require working alone, especially opening or closing shifts and overnight stocking and floor set staging. This isolation can prevent immediate help during emergencies, making lone and at-risk workers particularly vulnerable to robbery or assault while walking to the car after work when the area is less populated.
The key benefits of implementing such laws include:
- For employers: Ensuring compliance with state laws, reducing liability, and fostering a safer work environment which can enhance employee morale and productivity.
- For employees: Providing a safer workplace, reducing the risk of injury or stress-related incidents, and ensuring proper training and resources to handle potential threats.
- For lone, mobile, and at-risk workers: Offering enhanced security measures, like panic buttons, and assurance that help is readily available, which is particularly crucial for employees working late shifts or in isolated areas.
New York retail worker safety act: Employers' action plan
1. Proactive strategies for assessing workplace violence risks
Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards, from physical shop layout vulnerabilities to patterns of customer behavior that could escalate to violence. Engage employees in these assessments to gain valuable frontline insights and foster a culture of vigilance.
2. Crafting a strong workplace violence prevention plan
Develop a comprehensive workplace violence prevention plan that goes beyond compliance. Outline detailed protocols for reporting incidents, conducting regular safety drills, and providing clear instructions for emergencies. Look to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and The Department of Homeland Security for insights and best practices for your workplace violence prevention planning.
3. Panic buttons: A lifeline for retail workers’ safety
Employers with 500 or more retail workers nationwide must install panic buttons that immediately dispatch local law enforcement when pressed. This provision ensures that retail employees can quickly access emergency help, significantly reducing response times and enhancing overall safety. Whether stationary or wearable, these panic buttons are essential tools for protecting workers, especially those working alone or during late shifts. Moreover, installing these devices goes beyond compliance; it fosters a culture of safety and demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being.
“At Aware360, we believe that safety is a fundamental right for every worker. We're here to ensure that right is upheld, especially for retail workers who face tough situations every day. Our connected safety solutions do more than help retailers check compliance boxes; they create a real support network for employees who deserve to feel safe and empowered on the job.
Eric Fishman, Chief Strategy Officer
Aware360 can help retailers keep their employees safe and stay in compliance with reliable panic buttons like the Belle X and ActiveHalo. Employees can feel safe late at night, or when with aggressive customers with our SOS alerts. Experience peace of mind with Aware360’s solutions to protect your retail workers.
Belle X: A wearable device for retail workers
- SOS alerts: By pressing a button, workers can send an SOS alert to our 24/7 Monitoring Center and designated individuals to get immediate assistance, whether in case of emergency or a non-emergency.
- Real-time GPS location for safety: Equipped with advanced GPS, the Belle X ensures your worker’s location is always trackable whenever an alert is sent out, providing quick support in case of an emergency and peace of mind on every shift.
- Fall detection: With slips, trips, and falls being one of the most common causes for injuries in the retail sector, having a device to accurately track falls and dispatch help in case a worker is incapacitated is a non-negotiable.
- Effortless, accessible operation: With its one-touch operation, the Belle X is incredibly easy to use. For visually impaired team members, the device features a Braille button, ensuring accessibility for all.
- Durable and waterproof (IPX7 rated): The Belle X is waterproof, with an IPX7 rating, making it suitable for various conditions—even in areas where spills or moisture are common.
- Extended battery life for continuous protection: The Belle X’s long-lasting battery holds up to seven days on a single charge, meaning fewer interruptions and reliable safety coverage all week long.
Active Halo: 24/7 protection for your retail workforce
- SOS alerting with hands-free two-way voice: With one touch, retail workers are directly connected with our 24/7 Monitoring Center through hands-free, two-way voice communication. This feature allows for an immediate response to emergencies, so your team is always backed by support.
- Advanced fall detection for quick assistance: For retail workers who may be at risk of slips or falls, Active Halo’s advanced fall detection feature provides an added layer of protection. Even if a worker doesn’t respond after a detected fall, our Monitoring Center will ensure they receive in-person assistance.
- Safety concierge services: Retail workers can use our SOS service anytime they need additional reassurance. Whether they’re alone with a customer or walking through a dimly lit parking lot, they can simply press the SOS button, and our agents will stay on the line until they feel safe again.
- Smart and threat zones: Create customized virtual boundaries around your stores, parking areas, or known hazardous zones. This will allow you to receive instant alerts when retail employees enter or leave these areas, helping you to monitor safety proactively, and for them to receive custom reminders or notifications.
- Privacy options with SOS-only monitoring: With customizable location settings, retail workers can choose privacy levels that best suit their needs. For compliance, Active Halo keeps retail workers’ locations private, except when the SOS button is activated in emergencies.
- 4G LTE waterproof device: Active Halo’s rugged, waterproof design is built to endure the demanding environments retail workers face every day, providing dependable safety and peace of mind.
Protect your retail workers with Aware360’s panic buttons and safety solutions
Ensuring the safety of your employees is paramount. Aware360's innovative panic buttons and real-time monitoring solutions are designed to provide immediate response and enhance overall workplace security. Our easy-to-implement tools empower retail workers, ensuring they feel safe and supported at all times.
By leveraging Aware360’s cutting-edge safety technology, you can cultivate a workplace that not only complies with the Retail Worker Safety Act but also champions the well-being and peace of mind of your employees. Take a proactive step towards safeguarding your retail workforce. Discover how Aware360’s panic buttons and safety solutions can transform your safety protocols and provide unparalleled protection for your employees.
For an in-depth guide on enhancing retail worker safety and navigating the Retail Worker Safety Act, download our comprehensive retail eBook.
