Compliance and Penalties

Compliance and Penalties

Employers are required to comply with SB 553 by July 1, 2024 to avoid penalties, which can range from fines to legal repercussions.

This date marks the deadline for establishing, implementing, and maintaining an effective workplace violence prevention plan and maintaining a violent incident log. Additionally, training requirements for employees must also be in place by this date.

Non-compliance with the start date and content of SB553 can result in significant financial consequences, legal actions, and reputational damage, impacting the company's ability to attract talent and maintain positive relationships with clients and stakeholders.

Implications for Remote Employees

SB 553 specifies that employees who choose to telework from locations not under the employer's control, such as private homes or coworking spaces, are exempt from the standard workplace violence prevention requirements.

However, it is prudent for employers to develop violence prevention plans applicable to all employees, including those in remote settings, to prepare for potential future regulatory changes and demonstrate an overall commitment to their employee’s safety.