Keeping your handgun concealed is always a requirement, but concealment at work is even more important. There may be consequences with frightened and uninformed co-workers, maybe even your paycheck.
After a long day you’re the last one out of the office. It makes you nervous to be locking up the doors with no one around. Or, you might be pulling an early shift that means you’re unlocking the doors in the early morning hours. The horrifying possibility of active shooter entering the building is ever present. If there is any risk of being attacked or your job puts you into risky situations, you might consider carrying concealed.
Carrying concealed in the office workplace presents some challenges. In most workplaces, employees must follow a formal or business casual dress code, and this style is not always conducive to concealed carry. Some may be required to wear a uniform or certain equipment on the job, and concealed carry can be a tricky issue.
Consider a Small Caliber for Better Concealment
A smaller pistol or revolver that is easy to conceal may be your best option for office carry. A smaller handgun like a .380 Colt Mustang or Ruger LC9 offer a very low profile but pack the power and reliability you need.
Holsters and Off Body Options for Office Carry
If your workplace has a strict dress code, you’ll need to do some extra work to find a holster that fits your needs. an Inside the Waistband holster is a good option if you wear a suit jacket or care to place the firearm between your undershirt and button-up. A pocket holster or ankle holster are also options to test. These would depend largely on the movements that you do while at work and what type of pants are permitted.
Easy accessibility is an element that must be balanced with concealment. If an on-the-body holster doesn’t seem like an option for your workplace, consider carrying in a bag, briefcase, or planner that accommodates a firearm.
How to Handle the Issue with your Employer
After you’ve reviewed your state’s laws concerning carry in places of business and after you’ve read over your workplace handbook for references to the same, you’ll need to decide how to bring the issue up with your employer or co-workers. If you’re considering getting your concealed carry permit and carrying at work, it’s best to have the discussion ahead of time. If it’s an absolute no-go, you’ll have to work with that. If it’s allowed, then you’ve taken steps with your supervisor ahead of time and that’s always a good way to go.
Get a feeling for how the situation might be handled at the office. If no one knows you’re carrying, that can cut down on your odds of someone trying to steal your handgun. If no one knows it also means that no one is forming negative opinions of you simply based on gun ownership. It’s sad, but it happens.
Every situation is different. On one hand, never disclosing means you won’t be told you can’t carry, but it also means that if someone sees your gun or you use it, it could cause a serious issue in the office. Despite your responsible use and regular practice, your co-workers and supervisor may hold strong feelings about spending every day in such close proximity to a deadly weapon.
On the other hand, disclosing to your employer that you carry concealed could open a good dialogue about the issue and they may be accepting. The best tactic is to be respectful and knowledgeable prior to the discussion. Know your rights, the state laws, and your options for responsible carry before you start the discussion.
Concealed carry in the workplace is dependent on many factors. Do your research and weigh your options. Be prepared to have a dialogue about the issue with colleagues and supervisors. There is no substitute for being understanding and respectful, and in the end that may be the reason you’re permitted to carry.
