Workplace Violence Prevention (WVPP) & Behavioral Safety

State:

• Cal/OSHA Workplace Violence Prevention (SB 553) Effective July 2024; ongoing enforcement. Source:  https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/Workplace-Violence/Laws-in-General-Industry.html

Federal:

• OSHA Guidance on Workplace Violence General industry guidance for prevention programs. Source: https://www.osha.gov/workplace-violence

Newsletter Note

October is a good month for reinforcing behavioral safety and strengthening your Workplace Violence Prevention Program. Review your WVPP plan, refresh de‑escalation training, and ensure employees know how to report concerns early. Strong communication and early intervention prevent escalation.

LinkedIn Post

Workplace violence prevention is about clarity, communication, and confidence. Reinforce reporting pathways, refresh de-escalation skills, and make sure your WVPP plan is active—not just compliant.

Safety Tip

Encourage employees to report early indicators of concern. Small signals often prevent larger incidents.

Best Regards,

Dawn Armstrong

Government Affairs Chair

Purpose: The plan aims to mitigate workplace violence risks and ensure employee safety.

Components: The plan should include risk assessments, training programs, reporting procedures, and measures for addressing violent incidents.

Training: Employees should receive training on recognizing and responding to potential violence, conflict resolution, and de-escalation techniques.

Reporting: Procedures for reporting incidents or threats of violence should be clearly outlined, with confidentiality and non-retaliation protections for reporting employees.

Review and Update: Regular review and update of the plan to reflect changing circumstances or new risks are necessary.

Reminder: this summary is not exhaustive, and employers should refer to the specific requirements outlined in the legislation here:

https://www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/Workplace-Violence/General-Industry.html

Did you know SF has new LiB requirements that came into effect on January 29, 2024.*

The requirements apply to facilities storing or handling lithium  batteries in various capacities including encased in Powered Mobility Devices

An excerpt of key topics covered is shown below:

• Storage and Handling
• Battery Charging Areas
• Inspections
• Damaged Batteries and Recycling 
• Incident Reporting

Reminder: This summary is not exhaustive and employers should refer directly to the specific requirements provided in the document provided by the San Francisco Fire Department for guidance here:

https://sf-fire.org/media/2956/download?inline