No products in the cart.
18 June 2025
Retail workers in Ireland are facing rising levels of aggression, from verbal abuse to physical threats. So serious is the issue that the Protection of Retail Workers Act 2025 was introduced in the Seanad, aimed at creating specific offences for assaulting or harassing staff while at work.
A 2025 survey found that 35% of retail workers reported violent, aggressive, or threatening behaviour, while 78% of Mandate trade union members felt their employer did not provide adequate safety measures. So how can Irish businesses prevent abuse toward retail workers?
As leaders in staff safety solutions, Pinpoint understands the challenges businesses face in protecting their employees from aggressive behaviour from the public. Here are four key steps Irish retailers can take to make their workplaces safer and more supportive for staff.
Take a Zero-Tolerance Stance
The first step is broad in that aggressive behaviour must never be normalised in the workplace. Retailers should adopt a zero-tolerance policy on abuse, making it clear to customers and staff that violence of any kind will not be accepted.
This includes:
• Clear signage around the store
• Consistent internal reporting protocols
• Manager support for staff after incidents
• Engaging An Garda Síochána where necessary
Policies like these encourage respectful interactions and give staff confidence that they will be supported when issues arise.
Use Smart, Discreet Staff Safety Systems
In high-pressure situations, staff need a way to call for help fast without escalating the situation. That’s where discreet alarm technology comes in.
Pinpoint’s P2 System, available across Ireland, includes compact Personal Infrared Transmitters (PITs) that staff can wear on their person. With a single press of a button on the device, they alert a fellow team member to their location and the level of risk.
When a call is made from a staff panic alarm, graphic Display Units emit an alarm tone (if required) and pinpoint the exact location and type of call. This information can also be relayed to a range of devices such as pagers, mobiles and PC's, ensuring response staff can identify both the type and source of call quickly.
Integrate with CCTV
Visual deterrents are proven to reduce the likelihood of abuse. CCTV remains a core tool in deterring violence and gathering evidence after incidents. Body-worn cameras are increasingly being adopted by Irish retailers to discourage verbal abuse and threats.
Pinpoint safety systems can be integrated with CCTV, whereby, if a panic alarm is triggered, nearby cameras automatically start recording. This provides vital footage for investigations, staff support, and future training.
Train Staff in De-Escalation Tactics
Even with strong systems in place, prevention is key. De-escalation training equips staff to calmly manage aggressive behaviour using tone, body language, and spatial awareness.
Techniques include:
- Listening actively and not interrupting
- Remaining physically relaxed and non-threatening
- Offering solutions or alternatives to diffuse tension
- Knowing when to disengage and call for assistance
Training like this empowers workers to handle stress with confidence, and combined with staff safety systems, it ensures they’re protected at every stage of their workday.
As leaders in staff safety solutions, Pinpoint understands the challenges businesses face in protecting their employees from aggressive behaviour from the public.
At Pinpoint, we deliver staff safety systems Irish businesses can count on. With expert installation, tailored packages, and responsive support, we help you create a retail environment where staff feel protected and abuse is never tolerated.
Contact us for tailored advice on staff safety systems Ireland trusts.
