The California Senate Bill 553 (CA SB 553), which went into effect on July 1, 2024, is a milestone in labor law legislation. The bill introduces new safety obligations for most businesses in California, aimed at addressing growing concerns around workplace violence. Specifically, CA SB 553 mandates the implementation of comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans (WVPPs). These plans must include procedures for identifying and addressing potential security risks, maintaining extensive and auditable records of each incident, developing emergency response plans and conducting annual employee training on these measures. 

With no grace period for compliance, employers were required to have a WVPP in place by July 1 to avoid serious legal and financial consequences from the California Occupational Health and Safety Administration (Cal/OSHA), and the fines for non-compliance range from $18,000 to $25,000 per violation. Implementing a plan for CA SB 553 and maintaining compliance can be a complex endeavor, with customization required for each workplace, but adherence to these standards is mandatory. Organizations must review the specific requirements, assess current WVPPs and incorporate any necessary adjustments to ensure full compliance.