The California legislature has passed a slew of new workplace safety laws and regulations—many of which will change the landscape for California employers. Now that the Sept. 30 deadline for the governor to sign or veto bills has passed, we know what new laws are coming. In addition to legislation being signed into law, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) Standards Board—the agency tasked with developing workplace safety standards—has adopted a broad array of new safety rules.
Here is a summary of the top workplace safety legislation and agency rulemaking—and what you’ll need to do to prepare. (Note: Unless otherwise noted, these bills will take effect Jan. 1, 2025.)
1. Workplace Violence Prevention Law
In the prior legislative session, California passed Senate Bill 553. The bill requires that employers create and implement a workplace violence prevention plan (WVPP) and conduct employee training by July 1. Developing and implementing the WVPP has been a significant undertaking for employers, as the law requires comprehensive, multipronged procedures such as identifying and evaluating unsafe conditions in the workplace and reporting, responding to, and investigating workplace violence incidents.
2. Rulemaking Agency Adopts Indoor Heat Standard
The Cal/OSHA Standards Board has adopted an indoor heat prevention rule applicable to indoor work areas where the temperature reaches at least 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The rule took effect July 23. The...
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