NCJ Number
223192
Journal
THE POLICE CHIEF Volume: 75 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2008 Pages: 56-59,61
Date Published
June 2008
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article discusses varies ways in which law enforcement agencies can adopt safety measures, through planning, training and policy development, and implementation, and build a culture of zero tolerance for officer injuries.
Abstract
Enforcing the law is a dangerous job; many injuries officers sustain are the result of malice and forethought. While agencies have very limited control over the dangerous and often deadly situations that officers face in the line of duty, they can control many of the injuries and incidents that beset their officers. They can control many outcomes through comprehensive planning, training, uniform enhancements, and proper policy implementation. Law enforcement leaders must set the tone to create an environment in which officer injury is considered preventable. The key term in this principle is zero tolerance. Eight principles for a safe work environment that affect the law enforcement mindset about officer injuries are presented and include: responsible management, control of operating exposures, safety as a condition of employment, training employees to work safely, supervision for safety, prompt correction of deficiencies, people, and safety while off duty. In addition to these eight principles, the article discusses the effectiveness of safety committees for risk management in the areas of occupational health, emergency preparedness, rules, procedures, and training, and safety supervisor. Lastly, employee training is imperative as a safety measure in the prevention of officer injuries, in the areas of orientation of new employees, on-the-job training, and continued training.