California Senate Bill (SB) 553 Potential Penalties, Fines and More

As of July 1, 2024, this law requires most California employers to implement comprehensive workplace violence prevention plans and complete workforce training to ensure compliance.

SB 553 and Employers

SB 553 applies to all California employers with the exception of healthcare facilities which are governed by different standards and businesses with less than 10 employees. So ANY company within California and employs more than 10 people must be compliant.

What are the Main Requirements of SB 553?

The 3 main components of SB 553 are listed below. ASAA highly recommends in addition to the 3 components listed, a comprehensive facility threat analysis and vulnerability assessment as Active shooter situations are unpredictable, and it is best to recognize warning signs. Recognizing these signs can mitigate the risk of injury or death.

1. Workplace Violence Prevention Plan
2. Violent Incident Log
3. Employee Training
   

Are There Other SB 553 Requirements?

Additional requirements include employers integrating with a broader injury and illness prevention program. Employers should also:

• Make records such as the violent incident log and training documentation available to employees and their representatives upon request.
  
• Follow specific procedures for issuing, renewing, and enforcing restraining orders related to workplace violence.
  

What is the Penalty for Failing SB 553 Compliance?

Non-compliance with SB 553 can result in SIGNIFICANT PENALTIES. The Division of Occupational Safety and Health has established penalties ranging from a minimum of $16,131 per violation for serious violations to a maximum of $161,323 per violation for willful or repeated offenses.

Violations of California Senate Bill (SB) 553, which requires employers to implement workplace violence prevention plans and employee training programs, can result in a range of penalties

• Fines: Fines can range from $16,131 per violation for serious violations to $161,323 per violation for willful or repeated offenses. 
  

Potential Legal Action

It is mindful for employers to recognize employees or potentially regulatory bodies may file lawsuits against employers not compliant. Employers may be liable for damages resulting from workplace violence incidents that could or may have been or prevented.

Active Shooter Assessment and Assurance can assess, establish and implement an effective plan to meet your custom and specific requirements outlined under the new California law SB 553.