Workplace Safety for Women Working Alone: Lessons from a Recent Assault

In a recent incident at a Pennsylvania business, a woman bravely fought off an attempted sexual assault. This highlights the critical importance of safety measures for women working alone. This serves as a serious reminder that the mindset of “it won’t happen to me” can lead to complacency, and proactive steps are essential to ensure personal safety.

The Incident

On January 14, 2025, at approximately 9:36 a.m., Pennsylvania State Police responded to an assault in progress at a business located in the 200 block of Wilmington-West Chester Pike, Concord Township. Patrick O’Shea, 46, of Glen Mills, entered the establishment and engaged in conversation with a woman who was alone at the time. He followed her into a small room at the rear of the business, where he physically assaulted her and attempted to rape her. The woman bravely fought back and managed to escape outside. O’Shea initially pursued her but then fled the scene. Troopers apprehended him nearby.

The victim was transported by Concordville EMS for medical evaluation and treatment of her injuries. O’Shea faces charges including Criminal Attempt Rape, Criminal Attempt Indecent Assault, Strangulation, and Simple Assault. He was arraigned and remanded to Delaware County Prison after failing to post $500,000 bail.

Women Working Alone

This incident reminded me of an experience that I had when visiting a small local business. The shop was located in a basement with no windows and only one entrance. A woman worked there alone. When I asked her how safe she felt, she told me the local police kept an eye out for her. While it was reassuring to hear that authorities were aware of her situation, I couldn’t help but feel that relying solely on police monitoring was reactive rather than proactive. By the time law enforcement notices something is wrong, it might already be too late. In that environment, I felt strongly that the door should have been locked, with a camera installed to monitor who was entering. These small measures could make a significant difference in creating a safer working environment.

Situational Awareness and Preparedness

For women working alone, especially in settings with limited foot traffic, maintaining a high level of situational awareness is paramount. Key considerations include:

• Self-Defense Tools: Carrying legally permitted self-defense items, such as pepper spray or personal alarms, can provide an added layer of security.
• Improvised Weapons: Identifying everyday objects that can serve as improvised weapons in an emergency is crucial. Scissors, stapler, even a coffee mug can be used as a weapon. I recently shared a story about a woman who used bug spray from behind her counter to defend herself, causing her attacker to retreat. Almost anything can become a self-defense tool if used creatively.
• Knowledge of Exits: Familiarize yourself with all available exits in your workplace. In scenarios where there is only one exit, and it’s compromised, consider alternative escape routes or safe areas to retreat to until help arrives.

Preventative Measures

Depending on the nature of the business, implementing certain security measures can significantly enhance safety:

• Controlled Access: Locking doors and utilizing a buzzer system with surveillance cameras can regulate who enters the premises, deterring potential assailants. This approach is particularly effective in settings where employees work alone or during late hours.
• Safety Training: Regular self-defense training and safety drills can empower employees with the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively during emergencies. Training in martial arts or self-defense techniques, such as Krav Maga, can build resilience and preparedness.

Challenging the “It Won’t Happen to Me” Mindset

It’s natural to believe that violent incidents are rare and unlikely to affect us personally. However, adopting this mindset can lead to a lack of preparedness. The Health Belief Model suggests that individuals are more likely to take preventive action if they perceive a high level of susceptibility and severity regarding a potential threat.

Recognizing the reality of risks and taking proactive measures can significantly reduce vulnerability.

Conclusion

While it’s unfortunate that such precautions are necessary, being proactive about personal safety is essential. By staying vigilant, utilizing available tools and resources, and fostering a community of awareness and support, women working alone can create a safer working environment. Remember, taking these steps isn’t about living in fear but about empowering oneself to handle potential threats effectively.

source: Newsbreak

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