Preventing Workplace Threats: Insights from Retired FBI Special Agent Doug Hart"

In this episode of the HRIS Careers Podcast, Troy Wallace interviews Doug Hart, a retired FBI Special Agent with 27 years of experience and founder of ThreatZero Solutions. Doug shares his expertise in assessing and preventing workplace threats, helping organizations implement proactive security measures. This conversation highlights actionable insights for HR professionals, safety teams, and leaders on how to create safer, more resilient workplaces.

Listen On

• Spotify
• Apple Podcasts
• YouTube

Resources Mentioned

• ThreatZero Solutions Website
• Doug Hart on LinkedIn
• Example tool for monitoring student safety: Gaggle

Chapter Timestamps

1:08 – Introduction to Doug Hart

• Overview of Doug’s FBI career and the founding of ThreatZero Solutions.

4:47 – The Genesis of ThreatZero Solutions

• The gap in workplace violence prevention tools and how ThreatZero provides actionable solutions.

9:02 – Steps for HR and Safety Professionals

• Low-hanging fruit for immediate improvement, like training and evidence-based assessments.

13:00 – Three Critical Components of Violence Prevention Programs

• Awareness of pre-attack behaviors.
• Tools for reporting concerns.
• Conducting thorough threat assessments.

17:18 – Leveraging HR Data to Predict Risks

• Using performance management systems and employee engagement surveys to identify warning signs.

49:08 – Success Stories in Violence Prevention

• Real-life examples of ThreatZero’s impact in preventing workplace tragedies.

54:55 – The Reality of Workplace Liability

• The importance of foreseeability and proximate cause in mitigating organizational risk.

Key Takeaways

• Training Saves Lives: Employees can’t act on risks they don’t recognize. Regular training on recognizing warning signs and responding appropriately is essential.
• Technology Enhances Prevention: HR systems and tools like ThreatZero’s platform offer scalable ways to implement safety measures.
• Liability is Real: Organizations must be proactive in violence prevention to reduce exposure to costly lawsuits and devastating events.
• Prevention Over Response: The best strategy is to stop threats before they escalate rather than relying solely on emergency response plans.

Closing Thoughts

Doug Hart’s insights shed light on a difficult yet crucial topic: workplace safety. His solutions empower organizations to create a culture of vigilance, care, and prevention. This podcast episode is a must-listen for HR leaders and safety professionals aiming to protect their teams while fostering trust and resilience.