Staying Ahead of Threats: Using the OODA Loop to Prevent Workplace Violence

A four-step framework to help your team spot early warning signs and take action.

Workplace violence is a growing concern across industries, with new research showing that fatal incidents often stem from identifiable warning signs and organizational blind spots. While many companies have emergency plans in place, prevention usually falls short. One framework that can help shift organizations from reactive to proactive is the OODA loop—a decision-making cycle developed by military strategist John Boyd.

The OODA loop stands for Observe, Orient, Decide, Act, and it’s designed to help individuals and organizations respond more effectively in fast-changing, high-stakes environments. While initially developed for combat, the OODA loop is incredibly relevant to workplace security, especially when preventing violence before it escalates.

Let’s break it down:

🕵️‍♀️ Observe: Spot the Warning Signs Early

The first step is all about awareness. Companies must foster a culture where employees feel empowered to speak up when they notice concerning behavior. This could include sudden mood changes, verbal threats, or signs of escalating stress. Active observation, supported by regular training, helps teams identify potential issues before they become tragedies.

🧭 Orient: Understand the Context

Once a concern is raised, it's crucial to interpret it correctly. Is this a one-off conflict or part of a larger pattern? Is the employee under personal stress, or is there a potential threat to others? Orientation is about understanding what you see—using data, HR input, and mental health resources to get a complete picture.

✅ Decide: Make a Plan

With context in hand, leadership can determine the best course of action. That might mean conversing with HR, engaging an employee assistance program, or involving security professionals. Deciding doesn’t always mean taking drastic steps—but it does mean making informed, deliberate choices instead of waiting until it’s too late.

🚨 Act: Don’t Delay the Response

Too often, action is delayed because no one wants to overreact. But inaction can be just as dangerous. Whether offering support services or implementing a formal threat assessment protocol, timely intervention is key to de-escalating situations and protecting your team.

Creating a Safer Workplace Starts with Proactive Systems

By weaving the OODA loop into your workplace safety strategy, you’re not just reacting to incidents but building a culture of awareness, responsibility, and quick, informed response. In today's climate, that kind of preparedness isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

Let this be a reminder that safety isn’t static. It’s an active process, and frameworks like the OODA loop can help you stay one step ahead.

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