S.A.F.E. Approach White Paper

Ensuring the safety and security of healthcare facilities is essential for providing high-quality care. The well-being of patients, staff, and visitors depends on comprehensive strategies to mitigate workplace violence.

At Strategos International, we have developed The S.A.F.E. Approach System—a training and security program designed specifically for healthcare professionals. This approach has been successfully implemented in a major hospital system, leading to a significant reduction in security incidents.

Understanding The S.A.F.E. Approach System

The S.A.F.E. Approach System equips healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to handle workplace violence effectively. The training covers six key areas:

• Interpersonal Communication: Strengthening verbal and non-verbal communication to de-escalate conflict.
• Recognizing and Diffusing Conflict and Aggression: Identifying early warning signs and implementing response techniques.
• Safety Awareness: Teaching situational awareness to help avoid dangerous encounters.
• Legal and Policy Training: Educating staff on their rights, limitations, and best practices for security compliance.
• Protecting Staff from Physical Assault: Demonstrating self-defense techniques to prevent harm.
• Stabilizing and Controlling Violent Behavior: Teaching safe and effective restraint techniques to prevent escalation.

A Case Study: Implementation in a Major Healthcare System

One of the largest hospital networks in the U.S. implemented The S.A.F.E. Approach System across 45 facilities in Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. With over 40,000 employees, ensuring safety across all locations was a top priority.

Training Implementation

The training was structured into multiple phases, ensuring a seamless rollout:

• Planning and Preparation: Assessing security risks and developing a custom training plan.
• Training Sessions: A combination of in-person workshops, e-learning modules, and real-world simulations.
• Hands-on Practice: Engaging employees in practical scenarios to reinforce learning.
• Evaluation and Feedback: Gathering insights to refine the program for ongoing improvement.

Key Outcomes

The results of the program were significant:

• 40% reduction in calls to the safety and security department.
• 35% decrease in reported violent incidents.
• 50% increase in employee confidence when handling violent situations.

Participant Feedback

Feedback from healthcare professionals across three regions—East, Central, and West—was overwhelmingly positive:

• 99.5% of participants reported that they could apply proper interpersonal communication skills.
• 98.84% stated they felt more confident in handling a violent situation.
• 97.94% expressed feeling safer at work.

Why Training Matters

Without proper training, volatile situations in healthcare settings can escalate quickly, endangering staff and patients. The S.A.F.E. Approach System helps healthcare workers feel prepared, reducing stress and improving workplace morale.

Bringing The S.A.F.E. Approach to Your Facility

If your healthcare facility is looking to enhance workplace safety and security, implementing The S.A.F.E. Approach System is a proven solution.

Strategos International has been a leader in security training, helping organizations protect their people through effective, hands-on education.