Passed in late 2023, the California Senate Bill 553 (SB 553) required most employers to establish a workplace violence prevention plan (WVPP) and comply with other requirements by July 1, 2024. This was due to the fact that, increasingly, the topic of workplace violence is one that no organization should take lightly. While many employers might view workplace violence prevention plans as a “nice-to-have” rather than a necessity, the reality is much more nuanced and complicated. A well-structured Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) is crucial for fostering a safe work environment, protecting employees, and shielding businesses from potential legal and financial liabilities. For employers who may feel hesitant about implementing such a plan, here’s why having one is essential, not just as a safeguard, but as a proactive, business-savvy move that benefits everyone in the organization.
1. Protecting Employees is a Legal and Moral Obligation
First and foremost, employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to protect their employees. Federal laws, such as those enforced by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), require employers to provide a safe workplace, free from recognized hazards, which includes workplace violence. In California, SB553 requires the plan to be in place for all employers with 10 or more employees or businesses that interact with the public. Failing to meet compliance standards can not only result in hefty fines from Cal OHSA, but can also expose companies to lawsuits from affected employees.
Workplace violence isn’t just physical; it can include threats, harassment, intimidation, retaliation, and other behaviors that can cause psychological harm. A comprehensive Workplace Violence Prevention Plan recognizes the potential for these issues head-on, allowing employers to demonstrate that they are committed to their team’s well-being and safety. Without a plan, businesses are leaving themselves vulnerable to risks that could easily be mitigated.
2. Minimizing Financial Impact
While it may seem that developing a WVPP is a financial and time expense, the cost of not having one has the potential to be far greater, beyond fines and lawsuits. When violence occurs in the workplace, it leads to costly workers' compensation claims, decreased employee productivity, increased absenteeism and a rise in turnover. Studies show that the costs associated with lost productivity and employee turnover due to workplace violence can far outweigh the upfront investment in prevention.
Additionally, a single violent incident can result in skyrocketing legal and healthcare costs, not to mention the potential for increased workers’ compensation premiums. A prevention plan helps mitigate these risks by proactively addressing and identifying potential issues before they start or escalate, ultimately saving time and money in the long run.
3. Fostering a Culture of Safety and Trust
Employees deserve to feel safe at work, including them in efforts to create and support a safe work environment is crucial. Knowing that their employer has listened, been inclusive, and taken proactive steps to address their safety and well-being can boost morale, increase job satisfaction, and improve overall employee engagement. Employees who feel safe and involved are not only more productive but are also more likely to remain loyal to the company.
A WVPP sends a powerful message that the organization values its employees and their safety. This isn’t just good for morale; it’s also an essential component of building trust. A culture of inclusion, trust and safety encourages employees to speak up about potential issues or concerns, allowing for quicker interventions and problem-solving.
4. Addressing the Potential for Workplace Violence Before It Escalates
Many employers assume that violence won’t happen in their workplace or that they’ll “deal with it when it happens.” Unfortunately, this reactive approach is ineffective at best, and dangerous at worst. Workplace violence often escalates over time, with warning signs that are sometimes subtle, but recognizable.
A WVPP provides a structured and employee informed approach for identifying these warning signs early and responding to them appropriately. It includes training for both management and staff on recognizing concerning behaviors, understanding and assigning reporting channels, and knowing how to intervene safely. Rather than waiting for a problem to arise, a WVPP empowers everyone to contribute to a safe environment proactively.
5. Enhancing Company Reputation
Reputational damage is another risk of failing to address workplace violence. With businesses and employees being so interconnected to the world around them, news of violent incidents within a workplace can spread quickly, potentially harming an organization’s public image. This is particularly true if the organization is perceived as having neglected its duty to protect its employees.
Implementing a WVPP can be an asset to a company’s brand. Businesses known for prioritizing safety and well-being are more attractive to top talent, and clients or customers are more likely to associate these organizations with positive values like integrity and care.
6. Adapting to an Increasingly Complex Workplace Environment
Workplace dynamics are continually evolving, and with the rise in hybrid and remote work setups, the lines of responsibility and safety measures are also shifting. Modern threats such as cyber harassment, online bullying, and other forms of virtual aggression are becoming more common.
A comprehensive WVPP addresses these complexities, taking into account both physical and psychological aspects of safety. This not only ensures that employees are protected across various work environments, but also demonstrates that a company is staying current with the challenges facing today’s workforce.
For those who say "I don't think my company needs a WVPP"
For some employers, the reluctance to create a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan may stem from misconceptions or concerns about cost, complexity, or necessity. We want to address this common response and assure you that we can be of service in the creation and maintenance of your company's WVPP:“
We’re a small company; we don’t need this.”Violence can happen in any workplace, regardless of size. In fact, smaller companies may be at greater risk if they lack the resources or policies to prevent it. A tailored WVPP can be adapted for companies of all sizes, ensuring that even small organizations are protected.
“It’s too costly and time-consuming.”The initial investment in a WVPP is quite minimal compared to the potential financial, legal, and human costs of an incident. East Bay HR Professionals (EBHRP) provides resources, including templates and consulting services, intended to assist organizations in saving time and creating effective plans without breaking the bank.
“Our workplace has never experienced violence.”While past experiences can be reassuring, they’re not predictive. Incidents of workplace violence have increased significantly in recent years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 20,050 workers in the private industry experienced trauma from nonfatal workplace violence and 392 U.S. workers died from workplace homicide in 2020. Having a plan and taking steps to protect against potential violence is a prudent approach to proactively addressing a situation that may be simply out of your control to prevent as an employer. Taking a proactive stance by implementing a WVPP helps ensure that a safe record continues. Prevention is always preferable—and more effective—than reaction.
For assistance with your WVPP reach out to our team at any time to schedule a meeting.
Comments