Workplace violence and aggression are more common than you might think. According to recent statistics, an estimated 307,000 adults of working age in employment experienced violence at work at least once during 2019/20. These incidents not only impact the well-being of employees but can also lead to severe legal and financial consequences for employers. The best way to mitigate these risks? Ongoing training.

At Breakaway & Restraint Specialists Ltd (BRS Ltd), we believe that continuous professional development is crucial for equipping staff with the skills needed to manage and de-escalate violent situations effectively. As Nick Attard, our General Manager, often says:

"Our commitment to regular refresher training is about ensuring that safety remains a constant priority and that every professional feels empowered and confident in their ability to manage challenging scenarios."

Why Skills Fade Over Time

The skills needed for the prevention and management of violence and aggression (PMVA) are not static. They are subject to the natural degradation of learned techniques, evolving best practices, and constantly changing workplace environments. Without regular practice, physical intervention skills can become rusty, and the nuances of de-escalation techniques can be forgotten. This skill fade can directly impact a worker's confidence in their ability to handle aggression, putting both the individual and their colleagues at greater risk.

Moreover, workplace scenarios continue to evolve, as do the legal standards that regulate them. The strategies that worked a year ago may not be the best options today, and staying updated through regular training ensures that employees are prepared for whatever situations they might face.

Benefits of Regular Refresher Training

Regular refresher courses provide numerous benefits that go beyond simple skill retention:

• Maintenance of Muscle Memory: With physical intervention techniques, practice makes perfect—and regular practice keeps those techniques sharp and effective.

• Updates on Latest De-escalation Techniques: Best practices in conflict resolution and aggression management evolve, and refresher courses provide critical updates on the most effective techniques.

• Compliance with Current Regulations: As regulations change, keeping up with refresher courses helps ensure that both employees and the company remain compliant, reducing liability risks.

• Team Confidence Building: Shared learning experiences not only build individual confidence but also foster a cohesive team approach to handling challenging situations.
  

Jake Attard, a trainer at BRS Ltd, shares his experience:

"I've seen firsthand how regular refresher training transforms participants. The knowledge and skills they acquire become second nature, and their confidence in handling aggression increases significantly. It's all about making sure that when the time comes, they act swiftly, safely, and effectively."

Key Components of PMVA Refresher Courses

To ensure that participants are fully prepared, PMVA refresher courses typically cover the following areas:

• Physical Intervention Techniques Review: Reinforcement of effective physical intervention methods to maintain safety standards.

• De-escalation Strategies Update: Introduction to new communication techniques and psychological approaches to prevent escalation.

• Legal Framework Changes: Informing participants of any recent changes in laws or regulations that might impact their responsibilities.

• Risk Assessment Refreshers: Revisiting key concepts of risk assessment to ensure that professionals can identify and mitigate potential dangers effectively.

• Documentation and Reporting Updates: Emphasising the importance of accurate and up-to-date incident reporting, as well as any new protocols.
  

Recommended Frequency and Implementation

How often should PMVA refresher courses be held?

• Industry Standard Timeframes: For most industries, it's recommended that refresher courses take place annually. Some roles, particularly those in high-risk environments, may require more frequent training.

• Legal Requirements: In some sectors, regulations dictate how often training must be renewed, and non-compliance can have significant consequences.

• Best Practice Recommendations: Even if not mandated by law, regular annual training is widely regarded as best practice for maintaining competency.

• Integration with Existing Schedules: We advise organisations to integrate refresher courses into their existing training programs seamlessly, making it easier for employees to stay up-to-date without undue disruption to their work.
  

The Cost of Not Maintaining Skills

The risks of not maintaining PMVA skills can be significant:

• Safety Risks: Skill fade can lead to an increased likelihood of injury for both staff and service users.

• Legal Implications: Failing to adhere to current training requirements can lead to lawsuits, fines, or other legal repercussions.

• Insurance Considerations: Inadequate training can also mean higher insurance premiums or even denied claims in the event of an incident.

• Reputational Impact: Beyond the immediate safety and financial concerns, incidents arising from insufficient training can significantly damage an organisation’s reputation.
  

Regular refresher courses in the prevention and management of aggression aren't just a good idea—they're essential for maintaining a safe workplace. They help ensure that employees remain confident, capable, and compliant with the latest regulations. At BRS Ltd, we are committed to providing high-quality, consistent training to help keep everyone safe.

If you're interested in ensuring your staff are fully prepared for any eventuality, contact Breakaway & Restraint Specialists today for more information on our PMVA training courses. Together, we can create a safer, more supportive workplace.