Staff should carry out their own dynamic risk assessment before undertaking any work activity. Some basic things to consider should include:

• Remember trust your instincts
• If you feel uneasy or alarm bells start ringing - act right away
• Be alert, walk with purpose and confidence.
• If someone makes a grab for your bag, it is better to let it go than risk injury. Your personal safety is more important than your handbag or other belongings.
• Stay alert when approaching the property, look out for obvious dangers such as dogs etc.
• If the situation changes at any point and you feel threatened, make an excuse and leave. (It's a good idea to have an exit strategy prepared in your mind).
• Setting off your personal attack alarm or shouting /screaming to attract the attention of others - This may distract the client long enough to allow you to escape.
• If physically threatened, try to put as much space and a barrier if possible between you and the client
• Utilise measures that are in place to ensure staff safety when lone working or carrying out specific high risk tasks.
• Always carry your mobile phone on your person especially when carrying out home visits
• Consider access routes to the patients’ home/workplace, careful consideration should be given to deprived areas or circumstances where you have to use lifts or stairs.
• When approaching the workplace, be alert. If you see a broken window, signs of forced entry or insecure door, assume that someone is in the premises. Do not enter your workplace go to a safe place and call the police immediately. Inform your manager if necessary.
• Carry a personal attack alarm in a handy place. (Check the device regularly to ensure it works)

For more information on personal safety advice please contact your manager or visit the link below:
Prevention and Management of Violence an Aggression (PMVA) (sharepoint.com)

(Please note that intranet links can only be accessed on NHS Grampian computers, if you need further information please speak to your manager)