The California legislature has enacted a series of workplace safety laws that will significantly impact employers statewide. With the gubernatorial action deadline of September 30 now past, these laws are set to reshape workplace safety standards. Additionally, the Cal/OSHA Standards Board has introduced several critical new safety regulations. Below is an overview of the most impactful workplace safety laws and agency rules, along with key actions employers should take. (Note: Unless otherwise stated, these laws took effect on January 1, 2025.)
Workplace Violence Prevention Requirements
SB 553 mandates that employers develop and implement a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) by July 1, 2024. This plan is meant to include measures such as identifying and evaluating workplace hazards, reporting and investigating violent incidents, and establishing appropriate response protocols. Employers are also required to provide employee training to ensure compliance with these new standards.
New Indoor Heat Regulation
The Cal/OSHA Standards Board has adopted an indoor heat prevention standard for work areas where temperatures reach 82°F or higher. Effective July 23, 2024, this regulation poses challenges for industries like warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing, where temperature control can be difficult. Employers need to evaluate their indoor heat risks and develop compliance strategies in advance.
First Aid Kits to Include Narcan
To combat the opioid crisis, AB 1976 requires employers to include naloxone hydrochloride (Narcan) or similar FDA-approved opioid antagonists in workplace first aid kits by December 1, 2027. The law also provides liability protections for individuals administering these medications during overdose emergencies, except in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Cal/OSHA must finalize regulations on this requirement by December 1, 2028.
Process Safety Standards for Biofuel Refineries
AB 3258 expands the California Refinery and Chemical Plant Worker Safety Act to include biofuel refineries, as well as asphalt and petrochemical feedstock facilities. This extension addresses safety risks at biofuel refineries and enhances process safety management standards.
Revised Lead Exposure Standards
The Cal/OSHA Standards Board has updated lead exposure regulations, reducing the permissible exposure limit (PEL) and action level (AL) for workplace monitoring. Certain construction tasks involving lead are now presumed to exceed the PEL unless exposure assessments prove otherwise. These updates expand the industries affected by lead safety requirements and necessitate additional safety measures.
Weapons Detection in Hospitals
AB 2975 requires hospitals to install weapons detection devices at designated entrances, with supervision by trained staff. The Cal/OSHA Standards Board must integrate this mandate into existing regulations by March 1, 2027. Smaller facilities with space limitations may use handheld metal detector wands to comply.
Expanded Protections for Household Workers
Under SB 1350, California’s workplace safety protections now extend to domestic workers performing household tasks. Effective July 1, 2025, these workers will be covered by the California Occupational Safety and Health Act. However, the law excludes workers employed by private individuals for routine household tasks and those in publicly funded programs or family daycare homes.
These new workplace safety laws reflect California’s continued commitment to protecting employees and addressing evolving workplace challenges. Employers should act promptly to review their operations, update policies, and implement the necessary measures to ensure compliance. By preparing early, employers can minimize risks, safeguard their workforce, and avoid costly penalties. Compliance isn’t just a legal obligation—it’s a vital step toward fostering a safer and more productive work environment.
Workplace safety is an important piece of doing business in any state. Don’t hesitate to contact us at HR Services at: HRServices@501c.com or (800) 358-2163 if you’d like more information on safety, policies, procedures, and any other HR related topic.
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The information contained in this article is not a substitute for legal advice or counsel and has been pulled from multiple sources.
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