Critical Incidents

Business

In any business or corporate environment, whether it's manufacturing, research and development, or service-based, the occurrence of traumatic events can have profound effects. These impacts don't necessarily stem from incidents involving multiple casualties. Even the sudden loss of a single employee can send shockwaves throughout your organization.

The extent of the impact is influenced by factors such as age, developmental stage, coping mechanisms, and personal experiences. Recognizing the signs of a critical incident early on is crucial for initiating the recovery process.

Here are various incidents that have been observed in business and corporate settings:

  • Unexpected death of an employee

  • Anticipated death of an employee

  • Serious injury to a colleague

  • Severe illness of a colleague

  • Witnessing a particularly distressing incident

  • Suicide of a co-worker

  • Murder/suicide involving current or former employees

  • Assault on employees

  • Direct threats of violence towards employees and their families

  • Hostage situations involving employees

  • Catastrophic equipment failures leading to injuries or fatalities (e.g., industrial accidents)

  • Robberies

  • Sexual assault or threats

  • Natural disasters (e.g., earthquakes, fires)

  • Technological disasters (e.g., major system failures, radiation leaks)

  • Decisions causing serious harm or death to employees

  • Policy-related incidents causing harm or death

  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigations

  • Security breaches causing harm or fatalities

  • Working in environments with potential WMD threats

  • Incidents with intense sensory impact (e.g., exposure to strong odors)

  • Personal connections to affected employees

  • Identifying with the affected individuals

  • Employees resembling themselves or loved ones

  • Multiple traumatic events in a short time frame

  • Prolonged resuscitation efforts with negative outcomes

  • Interactions with extremely distressed employees

  • Any situation impacting the functional ability of employees

If there is uncertainty about whether you or your colleagues have been exposed to a critical incident, it is advisable to consult with Dr. Brown. He can provide an assessment of the incident and its impacts to help determine an appropriate response.