SB 553: Workplace Violence Prevention Program

Effective July 1, 2024, SB553 is a workplace violence prevention program designed to enhance safety and security in work environments. The program aims to protect employees from potential harm by implementing comprehensive strategies to identify, prevent, and respond to incidents of workplace violence.

Key components of SB553 include:

1. Risk Assessment: The program requires employers to conduct thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards and vulnerabilities related to workplace violence. This involves evaluating factors such as the nature of the work, the location, and any previous incidents.

2. Prevention Strategies: SB553 mandates the development and implementation of preventive measures to mitigate the risk of workplace violence. This may include implementing security measures, providing training for employees on conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques, and establishing clear policies and procedures for reporting and addressing incidents.

3. Training and Education: The program emphasizes the importance of training and education for employees to recognize warning signs of potential violence, understand protocols for reporting incidents, and know how to respond appropriately in emergency situations.

4. Reporting and Response Protocols: SB553 requires employers to establish clear reporting procedures for employees to report incidents or concerns related to workplace violence. Additionally, the program outlines protocols for responding to incidents, including steps for assessing threats, notifying appropriate authorities, and providing support to affected individuals.

5. Evaluation and Improvement: Employers are required to regularly evaluate the effectiveness of their workplace violence prevention program and make necessary improvements based on feedback, incident reports, and changing circumstances.

ESM’s Workplace Violence Prevention Plan ensures employers are equipped with the tools to comply with this new standard, which will be governed by OSHA. Employees and managers can be equipped with the resources they need to identify, address, and prevent potential workplace violence incidents, all while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Our comprehensive compliance program is available in your INSITE portal and includes:

  • Customizable WVPP template

  • Inspection form for a vulnerability audit (manual and digital)

  • Incident form for tracking cases

  • Computer Based Trainings, including:

    • Workplace Violence Prevention (SB553)

    • Active Assailant

    • Suspicious Behavior

    • Conducting an Environmental Scan

If you have any questions or need assistance with implementing your organization's Workplace Violence Prevention Program, please contact us.

Alisa Gemar, PMP, CSPComment