Domestic Violence Checklist: Threat Assessment

DV Checklist: Threat Assessment

All reports of threatening or violent conduct should be taken seriously and evaluated. While the method of evaluation, screening and assessment will vary depending upon the size of the business and security operation as well as the nature and severity of the threat, the list below is a good guideline.

If an associate self-discloses domestic violence, and it appears that they may be in immediate danger, call 911. If the danger is present, but not urgent, a threat assessment should take place. A company must decide who should conduct the assessment whether it be Security, an HR representative, or a manager. Be sure to let the employee know that only certain information will be shared with HR, Security and other key people within the organization to ensure his or her safety.

Call 911 if you are ever in immediate danger.

What is the situation? Please explain the details.

Has your significant other made any threats?

What type of abuse have you been exposed to?

Have there been any harassing phone calls?

Have there been any harassing phone mail messages?

If so, have they been deleted?
(Explain how the company can help screen and/or record them).

Are your co-workers aware of the situation?

If so, who are they and what information has been given to them?

Does your significant other know where you work? Has he/she visited the facility in the past?

Does your significant other have a history of violence?

If so, please explain each situation.

Do you think you or others are in danger here? (The victim knows best what the abuser is capable of).

Does your significant other posses any type of Firearms or weapons?

If so, are they registered?
Please describe the type (Handgun, shotgun, assault rifle, etc).

Are you planning to leave the relationship?

Have you contacted the EAP or a domestic violence program in the community?

Can I help you gather or provide you with the numbers of local domestic violence resources?

Have you sought out any medical attention?

Has a report been filed with the Police?

If so, please provide a copy of the report

Has an order of protection been issued?

If so, please provide us with a copy.
If not, will one be filed?

Can you provide us with a description and current picture of the abuser?

What is your need for safety NOW?

Do you need time off to attend court?
Do you need more extended leave to find safe housing or address other safety concerns?
Do you need time off or flexible hours to arrange for childcare?
Do you need to be escorted to and from your car/public transportation?
Do you need to change your hours or location?
Do you have the confidential security hotline handy?

Do you have a safety plan?

If not, it would be a good idea to work with a domestic violence counselor to create one.

Do you feel safe at work? Has your significant other/spouse/partner (use the term the victim uses) made any threats, specifically to try to hurt you at work?

At this point, if there is no threat to the safety of the victim at work, offer referrals to local DV counselors and/or the Employee Assistance Program.

Each case is different and responses must be tailored to the circumstances. When the threat assessment process determines that a high level of planning or response is needed, the more intensive step of gathering the Domestic Violence Response Team should be taken. Always consult your security department, the police or other experts to help you make an accurate threat assessment.