What is SB553?

Introduction & Background

SB 553 is a crucial legislative measure aimed at preventing workplace violence and enhancing employee safety in California. Requiring comprehensive violence prevention plans, regular training, and proactive measures, SB 553 ensures employers are better equipped to handle and prevent violent incidents.

The California Legislature passed Senator Cortese’s Senate Bill (SB) 553 on September 12, 2023, marking a significant step towards protecting workers from workplace violence.

SB 553 mandates that employers incorporate workplace violence prevention plans into their Cal/OSHA Injury Illness Prevention Plans.

This legislation was largely driven by the tragic 2021 massacre at the Valley Transportation Authority railyard in San Jose, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced workplace safety measures.

What is SB 553?

Rising Workplace ViolenceWorkplace violence and assaults in the retail sector has been a growing concern, especially over the last few years. According to a 2022 government study, there were approximately 1.3 million nonfatal workplace violence incidents annually between 2015 and 2019. In 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 392 workplace homicides, with the retail sector experiencing significantly higher rates of violence compared to other industries. Similarly, a 2022 analysis by the New York Times found that assaults in grocery stores increased by 63% from 2018 to 2020, and assaults in convenience stores grew by 75%. These alarming statistics underscore the necessity of SB 553 and its focus on comprehensive violence prevention strategies.

Have you experienced violence in the workplace?

Who Does the Bill Impact?

The new legislation will affect all 58 counties, 482 cities, towns and villages (also known as municipaities) and 2,949 Special Districts within California.

According to the Employment Development Department for the State of California, at the end of 2023 there were 1,747,948 registered businesses that will be affected by the new legislation,

Finally, this new bill will affect the 18,027,450 people employeed within California.

Some of the industries that
will be affected by the new legislation:

Collective Responsibility and Inclusivity

What sets SB 553 apart is its inclusive approach, allowing collective bargaining representatives to play a crucial role in protecting employees.

It also encourages employees to be part of the creation of the Workplace Violence Prevention Plans, ensuring every voice is heard, especially those who will essentially be on the front line of any potential violence.

This reinforces the collective responsibility towards workplace safety, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved in maintaining a safe working environment.