Workplace safety is no longer optional—it’s a legal and moral obligation. With the passing of California Senate Bill 553 (SB 553), employers across the state are now required to take proactive steps in preventing workplace violence. But with new regulations come new responsibilities—and that’s where Strategos International steps in.
What Is California SB 553?
Signed into law on September 30, 2023, SB 553 requires all California employers, regardless of size, to implement a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP). This is the first general industry regulation of its kind in the United States. It mandates policies, employee training, incident documentation, and more.
Key requirements include:
•A written WVPP integrated into your Injury and Illness Prevention Program.
•Regular employee training on workplace violence prevention.
•Logging and reporting of violent incidents.
•Legal provisions for employee representatives to seek restraining orders.
•Enforcement by Cal/OSHA with potential fines for noncompliance.
The law becomes enforceable starting July 1, 2024, with additional provisions taking effect January 1, 2025.
Why Partner with Strategos International?
With over 22 years of experience, Strategos International has helped more than 350,000 professionals in 15 countries create safer work environments. Our approach is holistic, proactive, and customized for your unique needs.
Here’s how we help:
✅ Comprehensive Assessments
We conduct on-site Physical Security Assessments focused specifically on workplace violence threats.
✅ Custom Policy Development
We assist with:
•WVPP creation
•High-risk termination protocols
•Domestic violence response
•Active threat response using our “3 OUT” model
•Behavior and body language recognition
•Reporting and communication policies
✅ Hands-On Training
Choose from in-person, e-learning, or immersive virtual reality options. Our training covers everything from de-escalation to active shooter scenarios.
✅ Legal & Compliance Support
We offer consulting to ensure your policies are SB 553-compliant and conduct audits to maintain compliance over time.
✅ High-Risk Termination Support
We guide your leadership through sensitive separations while minimizing risk and maximizing safety.
The Benefits
Partnering with Strategos International means:
•Increased safety and preparedness across all organizational levels.
•Reduced fear and anxiety among employees through clear protocols and confidence in emergency responses.
•Lower liability through demonstrable due diligence and proactive compliance.
A Roadmap to Compliance
Here’s the step-by-step path we recommend for California employers:
1.Understand SB 553 and its requirements.
2. Assess your current environment for vulnerabilities.
3.Develop your WVPP with expert help.
4.Train your staff in recognizing and responding to violence.
5.Implement high-risk policies, including termination protocols.
6.Document all incidents in a compliant manner.
7. Keep training and policies current as risks evolve.
8. Engage with employee representatives for feedback and collaboration.
9. Prepare for new restraining order provisions starting in 2025.
10.Conduct regular audits to stay ahead of compliance issues.
11.Maintain strong recordkeeping for potential Cal/OSHA reviews.
Common Misconceptions—Debunked
“This will make employees more fearful.”
Truth: Awareness builds confidence, not fear.
“Compliance is too expensive.”
Truth: Strategos offers scalable, cost-effective solutions that reduce long-term risks.
“This only applies to large companies or certain industries.”
Truth: SB 553 applies to all California employers, across all industries—even those with just one employee.
Ready to Protect What Matters Most?
At Strategos International, our mission is clear: empower organizations to prevent violence before it starts. If you’re a California employer, now is the time to act—not just for compliance, but for the safety and well-being of your team.
📩 Contact us at [email protected]
📍 Based in Independence, MO—serving clients nationwide