Workplace Violence Prevention (SB 553)

What is Workplace Violence?

Cal/OSHA defines workplace violence as any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the worksite. It includes verbal threats, written threats, physical assaults, and homicide.

The Four Types of Workplace Violence

Cal/OSHA classifies workplace violence into four types based on the relationship between the aggressor and the workplace:

• Type 1 — Criminal intent: the perpetrator has no legitimate relationship to the business (e.g., robbery)
• Type 2 — Customer / client / patient violence
• Type 3 — Worker-on-worker (current or former employees)
• Type 4 — Personal relationship spillover (e.g., domestic violence reaching the workplace)

Recognizing Warning Signs

Many incidents are preceded by observable warning signs. Reporting concerns early can prevent escalation.

• Verbal threats, intimidation, or aggressive language
• Sudden behavior or mood changes
• Escalating frustration with peers or processes
• Withdrawal, paranoia, or comments about weapons
• Substance abuse or stalking behavior
• Significant personal stressors becoming visible at work

Prevention & De-escalation Techniques

A calm, prepared response can prevent harm. Key techniques include:

• Maintain a calm voice and non-threatening body language
• Create physical space — never block exits
• Listen actively and acknowledge concerns
• Avoid arguing, judging, or making promises you can't keep
• Get trained help — security, supervisor, or 911

Emergency Response: Run, Hide, Fight

If a violent event is in progress, follow federal and Cal/OSHA guidance:

• RUN — evacuate if a safe path exists, leave belongings behind
• HIDE — if you can't run, find a secure location, lock and barricade the door, silence devices
• FIGHT — only as a last resort, commit fully to incapacitating the threat
• After: call 911, follow law enforcement instructions, account for coworkers

Reporting & The Violent Incident Log

SB 553 requires every covered employer to maintain a written Workplace Violence Prevention Plan, train all employees, and keep a Violent Incident Log for every incident — regardless of injury. Employees must report all threats and incidents immediately. Retaliation against anyone who reports or seeks assistance is prohibited.