U.S. frontline workers contemplate quitting amid safety concerns
CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — A rising tide of safety concerns is prompting almost half of America’s frontline workers to consider leaving their jobs, said security platform Verkada.
According to the 2023 Verkada Workplace Safety Survey, 76% of employers had encountered a security incident in the past year, leading to escalating fears among frontline employees.
Around 58% of respondents said they feel an increased threat of physical harm in their workplace, while 40% said they are more worried about their safety than a year ago.
Most frontline workers cited unpredictable and aggressive customer behavior as the primary source of their unease.
Interestingly, Verkada’s report also revealed a disconnect between employers’ and workers’ safety perceptions. While 69% of leaders believe they and their direct reports are safe at work, only 37% of workers agree. This gap is especially noticeable among younger workers, with Gen Z expressing double the safety concerns of their Boomer colleagues.
Should employers fail to prioritize physical security, more than half of the concerned frontline workers are prepared to leave their jobs within a year. Moreover, two in five would immediately resign if they could afford it.
“Our research reveals a disconcerting picture for the frontline workforce driving our economy,” said Verkada Senior VP of Product and Operations Brandon Davito.
Davito also urged employers, policymakers, and public safety leaders to focus on the safety of workers in vital public-facing roles.
