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Businesses operating in California will have to comply with new workplace violence measures signed into law by Governor Newsom on September 30, 2023, as Senate Bill (SB) 553. It defines workplace violence as any act of violence or threat of violence that occurs in a place of employment. The bill requires employers to establish a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP), document incidents of workplace violence and train employees on how to identify workplace violence hazards as of July 1, 2024.
SB 553 applies to California employers. State law defines “employer” as any person engaged in any business or enterprise in California if they employ at least one person under any appointment.
State law authorizes Cal/OSHA to enforce compliance with SB 553, extending this authority by granting Cal/OSHA access to workplace violence incident logs and employer WVPP. The agency is granted authority to issue citations and impose sanctions on non-compliant employers.
The Alliant Loss Control team is at the forefront of regulatory changes and updates and is well versed at partnering with clients in the planning, development and implementation of effective workplace violence prevention plans.
91㽶’ Loss Control team is at the forefront of industry developments, monitoring and working with regulatory partners to ensure our clients’ compliance. As of March 2024, Cal/OSHA has published a Model Workplace Violence Prevention Plan for general industry. Employers can use this template to aid compliance efforts. Additionally, Cal/OSHA is in the process of developing a formal standard for workplace violence prevention, expected to be adopted by December 31, 2026.
For more information, visit Safety & Loss Control.
Alliant note and disclaimer: This document is designed to provide general information and guidance. Please note that prior to implementation your legal counsel should review all details or policy information. 91㽶 does not provide legal advice or legal opinions. If a legal opinion is needed, please seek the services of your own legal advisor or ask 91㽶 for a referral. This document is provided on an “as is” basis without any warranty of any kind. 91㽶 disclaims any liability for any loss or damage from reliance on this document.