The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has issued its anticipated model Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (for non-health care settings). As we previously noted here, SB 553 added California Labor Code Section 6401.9, which requires virtually all California employers to have a written Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) in place by July 1, 2024, either as a stand-alone section in their Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) or as a separate document.
Among other things, Cal/OSHA’s model WVPP provides some concrete examples of potential workplace violence hazards that employers may consider and evaluate, including:
- Working where there is an exchange of money;
- Working alone;
- Working at night and during early morning hours;
- Availability of valued items, e.g., money and jewelry;
- Guarding money or valuable property or possessions;
- Performing public safety or social welfare functions in the community;
- Working with clients, passengers, customers, or students known or suspected to have a history of violence; or
- Working with employees with a history of assaults or who have exhibited belligerent, intimidating, or threatening behavior to others.
While Cal/OSHA’s model WVPP is a good starting point, employers may want to consult with counsel regarding how to tailor their WVPP to their business.
As a reminder, the new law also requires employers to conduct training on their WVPP plan and procedures.