Safety and security are no longer just priorities—they’re essential for every industry and every community. From public spaces to retail stores, the challenges are complex, demanding innovative solutions and a collaborative approach.

That’s been the focus of Axon’s efforts in Enterprise over the past few years, which are now centered around building the leading physical security operating system designed for public and private collaboration to support organizations in building safer communities. In our A Safer Shift series, industry leaders share firsthand strategies for preventing workplace violence, managing threats, and building safer environments. Through real-world stories and expert advice, viewers can learn how to foster a culture of security in their workplace and make safety a priority.

In this post, we highlight key insights from industry leaders featured on A Safer Shift who are at the forefront of these safety innovations.

Integrating technology into a culture of care for employees

For Brian Friedman, Director of Asset Protection and Risk Management at REI, fostering a culture of safety in the workplace is critical to addressing both physical and psychological concerns. Friedman emphasized the psychological toll these threats take: “It’s not just about physical safety. The fear of violent acts creates an unhealthy burden on employees and customers, even if such acts are statistically unlikely.”

Employee safety isn’t just about procedures—it’s about creating an environment where people feel secure. Technologies like wearables are helping us get there, but the real impact comes from integrating these tools into a culture of care.

-Brian Friedman, Director of Asset Protection and Risk Management at REI

Applying predictive tools for retail safety and asset protection

New technologies like real-time monitoring and predictive analytics are transforming retail safety. Khris Hamlin, Vice President of Asset Protection for the Retail Industry Leaders Association highlighted how these challenges have grown and evolved: “During the pandemic, bad actors learned to exploit online channels and marketplaces. This shift has driven increased violence in retail spaces as offenders seek high-value goods to sell.” Hamlin emphasized the importance of embracing innovation and collaboration.

Predictive analytics enable collaboration across retailers, law enforcement, and solution providers, creating a unified front against organized retail crime.

-Khris Hamlin, Vice President of Asset Protection for the Retail Industry Leaders Association

Strengthening retail security to make stores less desirable targets

Retailers today face a perfect storm of security challenges—an uptick in organized retail crime, staffing shortages in law enforcement, and overwhelmed judicial systems. As crime escalates, asset protection teams must be more agile than ever.

Underscoring how these issues have reshaped the industry, Mike Lamb, LPC, Global Retail Security Leader and Consultant said, “Over the past five years, we’ve seen a proliferation of organized retail crime and, more concerning, the violence that often comes with it. It’s become the crime of choice, and it’s taxing AP teams like never before.” He also highlights how technology is a critical part of the solution.

Hardening the target is key. Smart CCTV, body-worn cameras, and AI-powered analytics don’t just help after the fact—they create an impression of control that makes stores less desirable targets.

-Mike Lamb, LPC, Global Retail Security Leader and Consultant

Develop a culture where workplace violence is not tolerated

In healthcare, workplace violence isn’t just rising—it’s becoming an expected part of the job for many caregivers. Nurses, physicians, and hospital staff face unique challenges, as they are required to treat aggressive patients regardless of the threat they pose.

Eric Clay, President of the Board at IAHSS (International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety) highlighted the severity of the issue, saying, “At least 57 nurses are assaulted each day in the U.S. It’s estimated that upwards of $2.7 billion is spent annually on mitigating workplace violence.” To combat this crisis, IAHSS provides training, policy guidance, and resources to improve hospital security programs. “We have a professional responsibility to mitigate these acts and develop a culture where workplace violence isn’t tolerated.” Technology also plays a role in prevention and he sees action as critical to support healthcare communities.

Wearable duress alarms, concealed weapons detection, and body-worn cameras help reduce incidents and ease anxiety, making employees feel safer...If we fail to address this, it will have a long-lasting effect on healthcare and patient outcomes.

-Eric Clay, President of the Board at IAHSS (International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety)

Preventing workplace violence and protecting employees and communities

With workplace violence and theft posing significant challenges, organizations are turning to innovative solutions to create safer environments for employees and customers. Axon is leading the way with cutting-edge technology designed to improve response, streamline investigations, and foster seamless collaboration. In the very first episode, Mike Shore, Senior Vice President of Enterprise at Axon provided a stark reminder of the stakes: “In retail globally, there were 681 fatalities [in 2023]—more than half of the deaths in police-public interactions,” he said, “People should be able to shop or work without fear for their lives.”

Looking ahead, these leaders see immense potential for innovation and continued collaboration. All underscored the importance of innovation, collaboration, and proactive planning in creating safer communities. As we continue to navigate an increasingly unpredictable world, these leaders’ experiences offer valuable guidance for businesses and organizations committed to safety.

Explore the latest insights on A Safer Shift episodes.