There’s increased scrutiny on gun possession following a years-long string of mass shootings. Opinions on gun control vary widely and are hotly contested.
Many are calling for fewer guns on the streets and in the hands of people. But others actually want to increase firearm use. There are many individuals who want to bring a gun with them wherever they go as a means of safety and protection.
It may be hard to determine how to handle a weapons concealment policy in your workplace. There’s much to consider when deciding whether or not you want guns in your office. Read on, and we’ll walk you through some information that might help.
Guns Bring Legal Risk to the Employer
The question of gun possession in the office is one of personal liberty, of course. But it’s also a question of legal liability.
If a workplace’s weapons policy resulted in the injury of an employee, there’s a chance that employer could be considered legally negligent.
The legal theories that could find an employer negligent include workers compensation laws, tort law, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
OSHA requires an employer to provide a safe and risk-free workplace to the best of the employer’s ability. Allowing firearms in the workplace could be considered a breach of this responsibility.
The degree to which an employer leaves themselves vulnerable depends a lot on the individual workplace as well as the state in which it is located. There are some states that will grant legal immunity for employers that comply with gun-at-work law.
Though you may be tempted, do not attempt to screen potential hires about their gun ownership prior to hiring. This act can be seen as discriminatory and an . It can get you in big trouble with the law.
A Safe Compromise
Over half of the states in the country have a law in place that allows employers to keep a gun locked safely in their automobile. This allows employers to have a loaded weapon nearby, but limits the chance of an accident.
Some employers outlaw firearms but allow less-lethal defensive weapons such as BB guns or an air gun.
Crafting the proper weapons at work policy can be difficult. Legal experts say that an employer’s policy should make it clear that they condone violence or intimidation of any kind.
Whether or not an employer allows some sort of concealed carry in the workplace depends on their personal opinion on the matter. No matter what, the decision will likely set the employer in the midst of the ongoing gun debate.
Keeping in communication with law enforcement and insurance providers while you develop your policy can help ensure you’re on the right foot as you set pen to paper.
Crafting a Weapons Concealment Policy
It can be difficult to determine what the right weapons concealment policy is for your workplace. There’s much to consider and many strong opinions on either side.
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