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.