On November 05, 2024, at Chicago's Navy Pier, a recently-terminated employee returned to the tourist attraction and killed two workers before fleeing.

The assailant, who had been fired on October 14, gained access to an office space near a loading dock and shot Lamont Johnson, 51, and an unidentified 47-year-old man. Both victims were pronounced dead at a hospital.

The suspect, who has not been named by police, was a former subcontractor at Navy Pier and knew how to access the dock area. The site was put on lockdown after the shootings, and an alert was sent to nearby residents. Employees at the pier, including those at a souvenir shop, were instructed to turn off lights and hide in storage rooms. https://apnews.com/article/navy-pier-chicago-shootings-187565c142ba0dcdb9986603a0e353ab (Nov. 06, 2024.)

Commentary

In recent years, active shooters have been associated with third-party school violence. However, all organizations that address the public, including retail, should consider active shooter training for employees for many reasons:

• Active shooter training provides employees with the knowledge and skills to respond swiftly and effectively during a live shooter event, potentially saving lives.
• Many organizations are required to have active shooter training to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines or state laws.
• Proper training can reduce an organization's liability in the event of an incident, demonstrating a commitment to employee safety.
• Training promotes a culture of preparedness and safety within an organization, ensuring that employees feel valued and protected.
• Finally, training helps organizations develop and implement effective emergency response plans, improving overall crisis management and business continuity.

OSHA does not have specific guidelines for active shooter training. However, the agency emphasizes the importance of preparing for workplace violence, including active shooter incidents, under the General Duty Clause. This clause requires employers to maintain a workplace free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm.

OSHA encourages employers to develop and implement emergency action plans that include procedures for dealing with active shooter situations. These plans should cover evacuation routes, shelter-in-place procedures, and communication protocols. Additionally, OSHA recommends involving both management and employees in the planning process to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities during an emergency.

For more detailed information, you can visit OSHA's Emergency Preparedness and Response page at https://www.osha.gov/emergency-preparedness/getting-started (last accessed on Feb. 04, 2025).