Disruptive Individuals

A disruptive individual is someone who:

• Makes threats of physical harm to you, others or themselves
• Has a weapon
• Behaves in a bizarre manner or exhibits unstable behavior patterns
• Appears to be intoxicated or under the influence of a controlled substance

If you see a disruptive individual:

• Call Security at 212-746-0911
• Give your name, location and a description of the individual's behavior
• Note any information that would help to identify the individual: age, appearance, clothing, etc.

Express your authority by:

• Sitting or standing erect
• Squaring your shoulders
• Smiling and making eye contact
• Speaking clearly and distinctly
• Maintaining a constant voice volume that is not too loud

Do not:

• Stand too close to the individual
• Touch the person
• Slouch, glare, or sigh at the individual

Anger Management Tactics:

• Get their attention: use their name and ask them to sit down.
• Acknowledge their feelings: paraphrase what they say so they will know you are listening.
• Get them moving: offer a chair, move them to a private area if possible.
• Offer assistance: use the word "we" to include them in the solution process.
• Tell them exactly what you can do for them and when.
• Offer an alternative if appropriate.
• Advise co-workers of the potential problem if possible.
• Call for assistance immediately if you sense the situation is getting out of hand.