t concealed firearms are prohibited on the property. Notices or signage should clearly define the type of weapons that are prohibited on premises since some states differentiate between “firearms” and “weapons” (such as batons or taser guns).
As indicated earlier, the laws in several states permit a business to prohibit employees, vendors and customers from bringing concealed firearms on company property subject to posting of conspicuous signs and posters at entry that are readable from a certain distance. In many states, any person in violation of such posting requirements is guilty of criminal trespass, which is a misdemeanor violation potentially punishable by fine and imprisonment.
With site security an important emerging issue for most businesses, employers are concerned that a failure to address the risk of concealed weapons on their property may result in tort litigation against property owners and may threaten the safety of their employees.
Due to the complex and sometimes conflicting nature of concealed weapon laws,
businesses should consult with a competent attorney, who is domiciled within the pertinent state or local jurisdiction and is familiar with the pertinent laws, in developing a risk management strategy.
For more information about this topic, contact the Zurich RiskEngineering Department at 800-821-7803. For more information on any ofZurich’s products or services, visit zurichna.com/zdu.
