Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention for general industry
California Senate Bill 553, signed into law on September 30, 2023, mandates employers to develop and implement a workplace violence prevention plan as per Labor Code section 6401.9. Effective from July 1 2024, the majority of California employers are required to establish, implement and maintain a workplace violence prevention plan.
Enhanced employee safety from workplace violence
Compliance with the Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention law ensures a safer work environment by addressing and mitigating the risks associated with workplace violence. It requires employers to develop and implement a written Workplace Violence Prevention Program that includes procedures for identifying potential risks, training employees on how to identify and prevent workplace violence, and reporting incidents of workplace violence.
- Improved safety culture
- Proactive risk identification
- Safer workplace
Legal obligation to workplace safety
By adhering to the requirements outlined in the law, employers fulfill their legal obligations and avoid potential penalties for non-compliance. This ensures that the workplace is safe and fair for all employees, promoting a positive work environment. Additionally, it shows respect for employees' rights and can help build trust between employers and their workforce.
- Legal compliance
- Safer work environments
- Harassment protection
Improved workforce wellbeing
Implementing effective workplace violence prevention plans not only protects employees physically but also contributes to their psychological wellbeing and overall job satisfaction. Employees can feel more secure and valued in their workplace which creates a positive work culture that promotes mental health and reduces stress levels.
- Reduced incidents
- Improved morale
- Supportive workplace culture
Meeting the requirements of Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention
| Ideagen’s innovative and user-friendly applications - Violence Incident & Hazard Management and Workplace Violence Prevention | Assessment - empower organizations with comprehensive tools to effectively address workplace violence incidents and hazards, while also conducting thorough assessments to prevent violence proactively. |
Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence requirements |
Ideagen solutions |
|---|---|
| Employers must develop and maintain a written workplace violence prevention plan (WVPP) that includes specific procedures and measures to prevent and respond to workplace violence incidents. | Ideagen’s document management solution allows you to create, collaborate, distribute and provide access to accurate documents. |
| Employers are required to provide effective training to employees on workplace violence prevention strategies and procedures. | Ideagen's training management solution enables you to create, schedule, reschedule, track and report on employee’s training and certifications – all from a central software interface. |
| Employers must identify, evaluate and correct workplace violence hazards to minimize risks to employees. | The workplace violence incident & hazard management app facilitates identification, evaluation and correction of violence hazards. It provides procedures for post-incident response and investigation. |
| Procedures for accepting and responding to reports of workplace violence, including post-incident response and investigation, must be established and communicated to employees. | In addition to reporting within the Workplace violence incident & hazard management application, a public QR code allows for anonymous reporting with no user account or login required. |
| Employers must maintain records related to workplace violence hazard identification, training, incident logs, investigations, and injury reports for a specified period. | Both the risk assessment & audit management and workplace violence prevention assessment applications maintain records of workplace violence hazard identification, evaluation and correction for a minimum of five years. |
| The plan must involve employees and their representatives in its development and implementation. | Document your plan and how it involves employees and their representatives. |
Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention
Have a look at some of the more frequently asked questions around the Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence regulation and what it means for organizations.
What is the scope of the Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention law for general industry settings?
California's workplace violence law covers all general industry employers, except healthcare. It aims to protect employees, except in cases of teleworking or workplaces with fewer than 10 employees.
When is compliance with the Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention law required?
Compliance with the law is required starting from July 1, 2024, as mandated by California Senate Bill 553 (Cortese), providing employers with a clear deadline for implementation.
What are the key components of a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP)?
A WVPP should encompass procedures for identifying responsible parties, involving employees, accepting and responding to reports of workplace violence, providing training, responding to emergencies, and more. It serves as a comprehensive framework for addressing and preventing workplace violence.
Are there specific training requirements under the Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention law?
Yes, employers must provide effective training to employees on workplace violence prevention strategies, procedures, and hazard identification. Training should be tailored to employees' roles and risks, ensuring they are equipped to recognize and respond to potential threats.
What types of workplace violence are covered under the law?
Workplace violence, as defined by Labor Code section 6401.9, includes any act or threat of violence that occurs in a place of employment. This encompasses various scenarios, including violence committed by outsiders,
customers, clients, former or current employees, and those with personal relationships with employees, emphasizing the law's broad applicability.
How long should employers retain records related to workplace violence prevention?
Employers are required to maintain records of workplace violence hazard identification, training, incident logs, investigations, and injury reports for a minimum of five years, as per the law, ensuring thorough documentation and accountability.
