California SB 553 Workplace Violence Prevention Definitions and Requirements

Workplace violence is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for both employees and employers. In California, Senate Bill 553 (SB 553) was signed into law on September 30, 2023, with the aim of preventing workplace violence. 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. SB 553 applies to all California employers with at least one employee.

What is Workplace Violence?

The California Labor Code defines workplace violence as "any act of violence or threat of violence that occurs in a place of employment." This includes both physical and verbal violence, as well as threats of violence. Workplace violence can be committed by anyone, including employees, customers, and vendors.

What are the Requirements of SB 553?

SB 553 requires employers to take a number of steps to prevent workplace violence. These steps include:

• Developing and implementing a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP). The WVPP must include a written policy that prohibits workplace violence, a procedure for reporting and investigating incidents of workplace violence, and a plan for training employees on how to prevent and respond to workplace violence.
• Documenting incidents of workplace violence. Employers must keep a record of all incidents of workplace violence, including the date, time, location, and nature of the incident.
• Training employees on how to identify workplace violence hazards. Employees must be trained on how to recognize the signs of potential workplace violence, such as changes in behavior or increased stress levels.
• Providing employees with a safe and supportive workplace. Employers must take steps to create a safe and supportive workplace environment, such as by implementing security measures and providing employees with access to counseling services.

When Does SB 553 Take Effect?

SB 553 takes effect on July 1, 2024. Employers have until this date to develop and implement their WVPPs, document incidents of workplace violence, and train their employees.

What are the Penalties for Violating SB 553?

Employers who violate SB 553 can be subject to penalties of up to $10,000 for each violation.

How Can Employers Comply with SB 553?

There are a number of steps that employers can take to comply with SB 553. These steps include:

• Developing and implementing a comprehensive WVPP. The WVPP should be tailored to the specific needs of the employer's workplace.
• Providing employees with training on workplace violence prevention. Training should cover topics such as how to recognize the signs of potential workplace violence, how to report incidents of workplace violence, and how to de-escalate potentially violent situations.
• Creating a safe and supportive workplace environment. Employers should take steps to create a positive and respectful workplace culture. This can be done by implementing policies and procedures that prohibit harassment and discrimination, and by providing employees with access to resources such as employee assistance programs.
• Investigating and addressing incidents of workplace violence promptly and thoroughly. When an incident of workplace violence occurs, employers should investigate the matter promptly and take appropriate corrective action.

Conclusion

Workplace violence is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for both employees and employers. SB 553 is a law that requires California employers to take steps to prevent workplace violence. By complying with SB 553, employers can create a safer and more supportive workplace environment for their employees.

Additional Resources

• California Department of Industrial Relations: Workplace Violence Prevention: https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/dosh_publications/WPV-General-Industry-for-employers-fs.pdf
• California Chamber of Commerce: SB 553 Workplace Violence Prevention: https://hrwatchdog.calchamber.com/2023/08/calchamber-opposed-workplace-violence-bill-is-unworkable-for-small-employers/
• Littler Mendelson: SB 553: California's New Workplace Violence Prevention Law: https://www.littler.com/publication-press/publication/california-enacts-nations-first-general-industry-workplace-violence

I hope this blog post is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Please consult with an attorney if you have any questions about SB 553 or workplace violence prevention.

I would also like to add that it is important for employers to take workplace violence prevention seriously. Workplace violence can have a devastating impact on both employees and employers. By taking steps to prevent workplace violence, employers can create a safer and more supportive workplace environment for everyone.