How SoloProtect Supports Compliance with California Senate Bill 553

Enhancing Workplace Safety with the California Violence Prevention Plan

California has taken a decisive step to improve workplace safety with the enactment of Senate Bill 553 (SB 553), effective July 1, 2024. This legislation requires most employers to implement comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans. Given that nearly 2 million American workers are affected by workplace violence each year, as reported by OSHA, SB 553 aims to address this critical issue by setting new standards for safety.

Who Needs to Comply with SB 553 California?

The majority of California employers must comply with SB 553. Exceptions include:

• Employers with fewer than ten employees who are not open to the public.
• Employees who are teleworking from a location not under the employer’s control.
• Certain public entities and healthcare facilities that have their own rigorous standards

What Is a California Violence Prevention Plan?

A California violence prevention plan refers to the structured approach required by SB 553 to protect employees from various forms of workplace violence. This plan is essential for compliance and involves several key components:

• Risk Assessment: Identifying and evaluating potential sources of violence specific to the workplace. Use SoloProtect's Lone Worker Risk Assessment Template to assist in this process.
• Preventive Measures: Implementing strategies to prevent violence, such as security enhancements, procedural changes, or adjustments to the workplace environment.
• Incident Response: Establishing clear procedures for responding to and managing violent incidents.
• Employee Training: Providing regular training for employees on recognizing, reporting, and responding to violence.
• Record-Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of incidents and actions, including a Violent Incident Log as mandated by SB 553.

Key Components of a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan

The new regulation specifies that workplace violence prevention plans must include clear responsibilities for implementation, procedures for employee involvement in developing and updating the plan, and methods for coordinating with other employers if necessary. Employers must ensure there are effective procedures for reporting and managing incidents while preventing retaliation against those who report violence.

The plan should also detail emergency response protocols, training provisions, and procedures for identifying and addressing hazards. Regular reviews and updates of the plan are required, especially after incidents or when new risks are identified.

How SoloProtect Enhances Your Compliance with SB 553

SoloProtect is dedicated to supporting businesses in meeting and exceeding the requirements of SB 553 with our advanced safety solutions. Our technology integrates seamlessly with your existing safety measures and offers several critical benefits:

• Rapid Emergency Alerts: SoloProtect devices enable employees to call for help with a single button press, ensuring a rapid response in in case of a violent incident. For more information on how our Red Alert Panic Button works, click here.
• Location Tracking: Our solutions continuous monitoring of your staff’s location, particularly those working alone, this feature allows for effective intervention if an employee encounters a violent situation. Discover how our Latest Location feature keeps your team secure.‍
• Two-Way Audio Communication: During emergencies, including violent incidents, direct communication with employees is crucial. This feature enables rapid assessment and support to your employees. Discover how our Ready2Talk feature enhances your ability to respond effectively.
• Man Down Alarm: Our man down alarm,  alerts you if an employee falls or is knocked over, a critical feature for responding to emergencies where an employee may be incapacitated. This capability ensures that you can promptly address violent situations where an employee is unable to seek help on their own.

Maintaining Compliance with SB 553

In addition to integrating SoloProtect’s solutions, it’s essential for employers to maintain thorough records. This includes keeping detailed records of hazard identification and correction, training activities, and violent incidents for specified periods. These records are crucial for compliance and for ensuring a continuous focus on safety.

Download Our Workplace Prevention Checklist

To assist you in navigating the requirements of SB 553, SoloProtect has created a comprehensive Workplace Prevention Checklist. This checklist will guide you through the essential elements of creating and implementing an effective California violence prevention plan.

Download SoloProtect’s Workplace Prevention Checklist here and start preparing your business for the new regulations today.

Taking the Next Step

With California’s new workplace safety regulations now in effect, SoloProtect is here to support your efforts in creating a safer work environment. Our solutions are designed to help you comply with SB 553 and also promote a proactive safety culture within your organization. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how SoloProtect can assist you in meeting your workplace safety goals. Book a demo today.