Safety at work: Be alert. Trust your instincts

While there are complex cultural, sociological and even economic factors at play behind these statistics, women’s safety itself is a primary area of concern across the country; what varies is the severity.

There is much that can and needs to be done by us, as a society and a country, in terms of changing the overall ecosystem so that more women can participate in the workforce.

At the same time, as women, we need to do our bit to ensure a safer environment for ourselves both at the work place and outside of it.

Here are some safety tips every woman should keep in mind:

Be aware of your surroundings at work and en route to work, especially when you are travelling alone.

Keep a family member, friend or colleague informed of your whereabouts.

The more you pay attention, the less likely you are to be surprised.

Be confident and informed of your rights 

In any potentially unsafe situation — physical or otherwise — your ability to fight back depends as much on your mental strength as anything else.

It is important to understand that you can and should defend yourself physically should the need arise.

Be informed of your rights; there are several legislations — like Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women and Right to Privacy that require employers and society at large to provide the necessary work environment and grievance redressal mechanism for women.

It is also legal for a woman to carry and use pepper spray when in any kind of danger.

Trust your instincts and step up to the occasion.

Take your time before you trust people in your professional space 

While the idea is not to be overtly suspicious or distrustful of people, it’s advisable to exercise caution for your own safety.

Setting appropriate boundaries with work colleagues and enforcing them is a part of it.

Say NO when you have to, and be assertive.

Watch your use of social media

Be careful of the friend requests you accept and how much you reveal about yourself on social media in terms of your personal details, daily routine, etc.

Remember: The more information you reveal about yourself online, the more vulnerable you are.

Safety first

If your work requires you to travel out of station alone or travel late nights, exercise extra caution.

Take support from your employer in terms of safe transportation, boarding and other facilities that can help ensure your safety.

Sign up for a self-defence class 

If you travel alone late at night, or live alone and travel at odd hours for work, basic training in self-defence is highly recommended.

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This article was published in Rediff.com