What's Happening?
Cal/OSHA has introduced a new regulation requiring all businesses to have a compliant Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) in place by July 1st, 2024. This mandate aims to ensure that all workplaces have measures to prevent and respond to workplace violence, creating a safer environment for all employees. Workplace violence is a significant issue in the United States, ranking as the second leading cause of fatal workplace injuries. According to OSHA, nearly 2 million American workers are affected by workplace violence annually.
Who is Exempt?
Certain workplaces are exempt from the new WVPP requirements. These include places of employment where fewer than 10 employees are present at any given time and which are not accessible to the public. Additionally, employees telecommuting from a location of their own choosing that is not under the employer’s control are exempt. Healthcare facilities covered by Section 3342 of Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations are also exempt and should refer to Section 3342’s requirements instead.
Why is it Important?
Workplace violence is a significant concern that can lead to serious physical and psychological harm, impacting employee well-being and productivity. By implementing a WVPP, businesses can:
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Avoid substantial fines starting at $25,000 for non-compliance.
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Protect employees from potential harm.
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Reduce the risk of costly legal issues and liability.
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Foster a safer and more supportive work environment.
What Do I Need to Do?
To comply with the new Cal/OSHA regulation, your business must develop and implement a comprehensive WVPP. Here are the key components:
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Written Policy: Create a clear, written policy that outlines your organization's commitment to preventing workplace violence and the procedures in place to address it.
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Organizational Responsibility: Define the roles and responsibilities within your organization for implementing and maintaining the WVPP.
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Procedures & Processes: Establish procedures for identifying, reporting, and responding to incidents of workplace violence. This includes conducting regular risk assessments and ensuring appropriate measures are in place to mitigate identified risks.
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Employee & Manager Training: Provide training for all employees and managers on recognizing and preventing workplace violence, as well as how to respond effectively if an incident occurs.
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Recovery Plans: Develop recovery plans to support employees affected by workplace violence and ensure the continuity of business operations.
Ready for Workplace Violence Prevention Training?
Employers must provide training on the Workplace Violence Prevention Program (WVPP) when it is first implemented, during initial employee training, and annually thereafter. Additional training is required if a new or previously unrecognized workplace violence hazard is identified or if there are changes to the employer’s WVPP.
Workplace violence prevention training should include:
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Methods for involving employees and their representatives in the development and implementation of the WVPP.
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Information on how to obtain a free copy of the written WVPP.
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Procedures for reporting workplace violent incidents or concerns to your employer or law enforcement without fear of retaliation.
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Identification of workplace violence hazards specific to employees’ jobs.
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Steps the employer will take to address these hazards.
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Resources available to employees for avoiding or responding to violence.
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Tips on how to avoid physical harm.
Need Help?
At Optima Office, we offer guidance and support in creating a compliant WVPP. Our team of experts can help you develop and implement a plan tailored to your business's unique needs. Don't wait until the deadline—ensure your compliance and protect your employees now.
Please visit our WVPP page and fill out the form to get started before the July 1st deadline. Let Optima Office help you create a safer workplace and avoid costly fines. Contact HR for more info at hrservices@optimaoffice.com.
