Navigating the new Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention law: A guide for employers

Lexy Hughes Date published: May 28, 24

With the intention of focusing on addressing workplace violence, California has taken a significant stride forward with the enactment of Senate Bill 553 (SB 553). Signed into law on September 30, 2023, this legislation is geared towards bolstering protections for employees while they're on the clock. As a California employer, it's crucial to grasp and prepare for the mandates outlined in this law.

Understanding SB 553

According to the California Department of Industrial Relations, SB 553 mandates that employers develop and implement a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) starting from July 1, 2024. This plan encompasses several key components aimed at safeguarding employees and creating a secure work environment.

These components include:

1. Prohibiting employee retaliation: Employers must ensure that there are strict prohibitions against retaliating against employees who report incidents of workplace violence.
2. Accepting and responding to reports of workplace violence: Procedures must be in place to receive and address reports of workplace violence promptly and effectively.
3. Employee workplace violence training and communication: Employers must provide full training to employees on identifying and responding to workplace violence. This training should be accessible and tailored to the educational backgrounds and language skills of the workforce.
4. Emergency response: Protocols for responding to emergency situations related to workplace violence must be established and communicated to all employees.
5. Workplace violence hazard assessments: Regular assessments of workplace violence hazards are necessary to identify potential risks and implement corrective measures.
6. Maintaining a Violent Incident Log: Employers must maintain a detailed log of all workplace violence incidents, including information on the incident's nature, its consequences and the actions taken in response.

Creating a workplace violence prevention plan

Labor Code section 6401.9 outlines the specific elements required in a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan. This includes designating individuals responsible for its implementation, establishing procedures for employee involvement, coordinating with other employers when necessary and ensuring compliance through effective communication and training.

Employers should integrate this plan seamlessly into their existing injury and illness prevention programs or maintain it as a separate document, ensuring that it addresses the unique hazards present in each work area.

Maintaining the violent incident log

One of the crucial requirements of SB 553 is the maintenance of a Violent Incident Log. This log must capture detailed information about each workplace violence incident, including its classification, circumstances, consequences and the steps taken to protect employees.

It's essential to exclude any personal identifying information to maintain confidentiality while complying with reporting requirements.

Training employees on workplace violence

Training plays a vital role in equipping employees with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to workplace violence effectively. Employers must provide initial training to all employees and ensure that training materials are accessible and easy to understand. Annual refresher training is also required to reinforce key concepts and adapt to any changes in the work environment.

Incorporating Ideagen’s workplace safety solutions

To assist employers in meeting workplace violence prevention requirements, Ideagen offers innovative solutions suitable for businesses across various locations. Ideagen's workplace violence incident & hazard management app enables employers to seamlessly report, investigate and manage workplace violence incidents and hazards. It includes features such as classifying incidents according to regulatory standards, integrated corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs), automated incident logging and anonymous reporting options for web and mobile platforms.

Additionally, Ideagen provides the workplace violence prevention assessment app, which helps employers identify and evaluate workplace violence hazards, assess risk levels and provide recommendations. Integrated with the workplace violence incident & hazard management app, it ensures a comprehensive approach to workplace safety.

Moving forward with Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention

As the implementation date for SB 553 approaches, employers in California must take proactive steps to comply with the new requirements and ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. By developing comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans, maintaining accurate incident logs and providing effective training, employers can create safer workplaces and mitigate the risk of workplace violence. For further guidance and assistance on workplace violence apps, employers can contact us.

Learn about Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention

Find out more about the Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention law with Ideagen

Find out more