The state of California has passed several new workplace safety laws in 2024 that employers should be aware of. California has a reputation for stringent rules and standards that protect the occupational safety of workers. It has been often noted that the standards for state-level regulatory bodies such as Cal OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) are even more stringent than those of the federal level. This can be seen in the new legislation passed in the state to safeguard the health and safety of employees at the workplace.
In this article, we summarize the newest and most important workplace safety regulations and updates in the state. Knowledge of such information is important for any employer who wishes to stay on the right side of EHS and occupational safety regulations in California. Read on to learn more.
New Workplace Safety Laws in California for Businesses
The new workplace safety laws in California update old occupational health standards and introduce new ones. The most important of these laws include the first workplace violence prevention safety requirements for employers. Employers now have to incorporate a workplace violence prevention plan into the existing Injury and Illness Prevention Plans.
Other legislation revises old ones, such as updated standards for lead exposure and indoor heat. Other legislation related to health such as the inclusion of Narcan in safety kids to deal with the opioid crisis and requirements for weapon inspection at key entrances to hospitals to protect both patients and health workers.
Also, the new legislation extends new rights and protections to certain household workers, and biofuel refineries are now under new process safety management standards. We take a look at each of these changes in turn.
Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) or SB 553
California’s new Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP), established under SB 553, requires employers to develop comprehensive strategies to prevent workplace violence. The law mandates the following for employers:
- Identify potential risks
- Implement preventive measures
- Provide regular training to all employees
This includes creating detailed plans to respond to incidents of workplace violence and ensuring that workers can recognize and report warning signs. The WVPP is intended to increase awareness and preparedness across all industries to enhance worker safety and minimize violent incidents at work.
Lead Exposure Standards
California’s new lead exposure standards significantly lower permissible exposure limits (PELs) to reduce health risks in industries like construction and manufacturing. Employers must now:
- Monitor airborne lead levels more rigorously
- Implement enhanced safety controls
- Provide regular medical surveillance for workers exposed to lead.
Stricter rules on personal protective equipment (PPE) and lead-safe work practices have been introduced to prevent lead contamination. These changes aim to better protect workers from long-term lead exposure risks, with new compliance measures required across a broader range of industries. The regulations will go into effect on January 1, 2025, with businesses being given an additional year for full implementation.
Indoor Heat Standard
California’s new indoor heat standard addresses worker safety by regulating indoor temperatures in workplaces. It requires employers to take protective measures when indoor temperatures exceed 82°F, particularly for environments where heat exposure could lead to heat-related illnesses.
Employers must ensure the following:
- Proper ventilation
- Access to cool drinking water
- Frequent rest breaks for employees.
This regulation is designed to safeguard workers from the dangers of overheating, especially in industries with poor indoor climate control. This standard went into effect on July 23, 2024.
Weapon Detection in Hospitals
California’s new weapon detection — also known as AB 2975 — regulations for hospitals require the installation of weapon screening systems at key hospital entrances. This mandate is part of broader workplace violence prevention measures aimed at protecting healthcare workers, patients, and visitors from potential threats.
The new standards include:
- Assigning appropriate personnel. Personnel other than healthcare providers with the appropriate training should be put in charge of managing weapon detection systems.
- Alternative search and screening for noncompliance. Alternative search and screening protocols should be adopted for those who refuse to undergo weapon screening.
- Responding to deadly weapon detection. Hospital management should adopt protocols to respond to the detection of dangerous weapons.
Hospitals must implement these systems to identify and prevent the entry of firearms or other dangerous weapons, as well as to respond effectively to the detection of such weapons. This will lead to the overall enhancement of safety in healthcare facilities. California hospitals have to comply 90 days or less after the standard is adopted. However, the date for adoption of the standard remains unclear.
Narcan in First Aid Kits
A new regulation in California requires employers to include Narcan (Naloxone) in workplace first aid kits. This measure is aimed at addressing the increasing risks of opioid overdoses, particularly in industries with higher exposure to such incidents.
Narcan is a medication that rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdoses, making it a critical tool for immediate response in emergency situations. Employers must ensure staff are trained on its use, promoting preparedness and potentially saving lives.
However, this law is not expected to have immediate effect. The law also known as A.B. 1976 is expected to be adhered to by all employers by no later than Dec. 1, 2028.
Biofuel Refinery Standards
California’s new biofuel refinery standards extend stringent process safety management (PSM) regulations to biofuel facilities, ensuring these plants follow safety protocols similar to traditional refineries. The updated regulations aim to address risks associated with handling hazardous chemicals and flammable materials in biofuel production.
Employers must now implement enhanced safety measures that include:
- Hazard analysis
- Employee training
- Emergency preparedness plans
This legislation prioritizes worker safety and environmental protection in an industry that has seen rapid expansion and growth in recent years in California.
Protection for Domestic Workers
California’s new rules extend workplace protections to domestic workers, enhancing their safety under Cal/OSHA regulations. This legislation includes safeguards for workers who perform household tasks like cleaning, caregiving, and maintenance.
It ensures that domestic workers are entitled to the same workplace safety standards as employees in other industries, addressing issues such as:
- Injury prevention
- Access to safety equipment
- Safe working environments
This development expands their rights, promoting a safer and healthier work environment for domestic workers.
Conclusion
Workplace safety should be a top priority for any employer based in California. Operating in a state like California necessitates following strict regulatory guidelines pertaining to worker safety. It safeguards the health and safety of your workers, keeping them healthy and productive. This will ultimately benefit your business as it reduces lost man-hours from injuries or accidents. It also reduces the risk of fines and penalties.
Not all businesses are in a position to stay updated on these new rules and their nuances. We recommend relying on experts to ensure that you stay on top of this flurry of new legislation, while ensuring that you meet the requirements of old or current standards. Here at CDMS, we provide the expertise to ensure that you do just that. Get in touch with one of our experts today to get safety compliance management services.
