New Workplace Violence Prevention Requirements

Starting July 1, 2024, California will implement a new violence prevention program mandated by Senate Bill 553 (SB 553). This legislation requires nearly all employers in the state to establish, implement, and maintain a comprehensive Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP). We are committed to helping navigate these new requirements to ensure compliance and promote workplace safety.

Key Components of the WVPP

1. Written Plan: Employers must develop a written WVPP that is accessible to all employees. This plan should outline the responsibilities for implementing and maintaining the program, procedures for reporting and responding to incidents, and emergency response protocols.

2. Employee Training: Employers are required to provide training on the WVPP initially when the plan is established and annually thereafter. This training should cover the identification and evaluation of workplace violence hazards, methods for correcting unsafe conditions, and procedures for responding to workplace violence incidents.

3. Incident Logs and Recordkeeping: Employers must maintain a violent incident log for five years and keep training records for at least one year. These logs should document all reported incidents of workplace violence and the actions taken in response.

4. Hazard Identification and Correction: The WVPP must include a system for identifying and evaluating workplace violence hazards and procedures for correcting these hazards promptly. This involves regular inspections and employee participation in the hazard identification process.

5. Non-Retaliation Policies: Procedures must be in place to ensure that employees can report workplace violence incidents without fear of retaliation.

Understanding the Impact of SB 553

The goal of SB 553 is to enhance workplace safety across all industries in California. It emphasizes proactive measures to prevent workplace violence and ensures that employers take responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment. However, there are specific exemptions for certain small businesses and telecommuting arrangements.

Compliance and Support

Employers who fail to comply with these requirements may face penalties from Cal/OSHA. To help you stay informed and compliant, Produce Trust offers resources and support tailored to the unique needs of the produce and restaurant industries. For more detailed information, you can review resources provided by the California Chamber of Commerce and other legal advisories on this topic.

Produce Trust is dedicated to supporting our clients through these regulatory changes. If you have any questions or need assistance in developing your WVPP, please do not hesitate to contact us at (213) 623-6293 or richard.arias@apdbla.com.

To obtain templates to help you design your own Violence Prevention Plan, call Richard Arias at (213) 623-6293 or email richard.arias@apdbla.com