As part of our commitment to keeping you informed on legislative changes that may affect your business, we wish to draw your attention to a significant new law taking effect in California starting July 1st, 2024.
California Senate Bill 553 – Workplace Violence Prevention Plan
Starting July 1, 2024, California Senate Bill (SB) 553 mandates that most employers in the state implement a comprehensive workplace violence prevention plan. This legislation is a proactive step towards ensuring safer work environments for all employees across various industries.
These are the Key Requirements of SB 553:
- Establishment of a Prevention Plan: Employers must develop and maintain a written plan that outlines the measures taken to prevent workplace violence.
- Employee Training: All staff must be trained on the prevention plan, ensuring they are aware of the policies and procedures in place.
- Incident Reporting and Response: The plan must include protocols for reporting incidents and responding to workplace violence effectively.
- Involvement of Employees: Employers are required to involve employees and their representatives in the development and implementation of the prevention plan.
The new law underscores the importance of a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential risks of workplace violence. It is crucial for employers to comply with these regulations to foster a secure and supportive work environment in addition to avoiding hefty fines from the State.
