California has enacted new legislation (Senate Bill 553) requiring many employers to implement workplace violence prevention plans that include specific elements, such as training. This law will go into effect on July 1, 2024.
The following employers are exempt from this requirement:
- Healthcare facilities, service categories, and operations under Section 3342 of Title 8 of the CA Code of Regulations
- Department of corrections and Rehabilitation facilities in compliance with Section 3203 of Title 8 of the CA Code of Regulations
- Specific law enforcement agencies
- Employers in compliance with Section 3342 of Title 8 of the CA Code of Regulations
- Places of employment with fewer 10 than employees working at the same time
- Employers that have employees teleworking from various locations, chosen by the employee
Unless an employer is exempt, it must adopt a written violence prevention plan that is accessible and available to all employees and representatives. The plan must be in effect in all work areas and at all times, with specific regulations around the corrective measures and hazards for each operation/work area.
In addition, employers must provide all employees with initial training when the plan is implemented, and annual training thereafter.
Read more about this legislation and what must be included in a written violence prevention plan (found in Section 4).
This article is informational and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult with an employment lawyer or accountant for additional clarification on how these changes impact your company.