Workplace Safety

This workshop is designed for California employers and focuses on implementing the requirements of California Labor Code Section 6401.9, which mandates workplace violence prevention plans (WVPP) and employee training. Participants will gain an understanding of workplace violence awareness, learn how to take action to prevent and respond to incidents, and grasp their accountability as employers under the law.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Awareness: Defining workplace violence and its different types as outlined by California Labor Code Section 6401.9 Recognizing the potential hazards and risk factors for workplace violence specific to different work environments. Identifying behaviors of concern and warning signs that may indicate potential for workplace violence. Understanding the importance of a positive and safe work environment for preventing workplace violence.

• Action: Developing and implementing an effective Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) specific to your workplace hazards and corrective measures. Establishing clear procedures for employees to report workplace violence incidents without fear of retaliation. Learning de-escalation techniques and strategies for responding to potentially violent situations. Developing effective emergency response procedures for actual workplace violence incidents.

• Accountability: Understanding the legal requirements for employers under California Labor Code Section 6401.9 (SB 553). Learning the necessary recordkeeping requirements, including maintaining a violent incident log. Knowing how to conduct thorough investigations of workplace violence incidents. Reviewing and updating the WVPP periodically, especially after incidents or when deficiencies are observed.

Who should attend:

• California employers and supervisors responsible for implementing workplace violence prevention programs.
• Human resources professionals and safety officers.
• Anyone involved in creating and maintaining a safe work environment in California.

Note: This workshop will provide the necessary training to meet the awareness, action, and accountability requirements of California Labor Code Section 6401.9 (SB 553). However, employers are also required to develop and implement a customized Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) specific to their unique workplace hazards and procedures.

Speaker: John Kosack, Senior Human Resources & Safety Specialist

Human Resources and Safety Administrator at George Petersen Insurance since 2002. John holds a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) degree from Humboldt State University, is a Certified Risk Manager (CRM), and a Certified Safety Management Specialist (CSMS). He has over 40 years of experience in both personnel administration and safety program coordination, working for major processing and transportation employers on the North Coast. John maintains his training through ongoing attendance at seminars and classes on both labor law and safety through such organizations as the California Chamber of Commerce, the Safety Center, the National Alliance, and the OSHA Training Institute at UC San Diego.

Experience

As safety director for 6 years of a major processing firm, John was instrumental in reducing the injury rate, improving the safety program, and helping save the company in workers comp costs. At George Petersen Insurance, he has assisted a wide variety of clients, including manufacturers, restaurants, wineries, and service companies in the improvement of their human resources and safety programs.

Services Overview

Safety and Loss Control: review and/or assist in the development of an Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (“IIPP”); perform on-site facility inspections and make recommendations; perform on-site meetings with supervisors to discuss safety and workers comp issues; perform on-site safety meetings with employees; provide forklift training; review specialized programs for compliance such as hearing conservation, respirators, and hazard communication; assist in the development of safety incentive programs; general safety program reviews and assessments.

Human Resources: review and/or assist in the development of an Employee Handbook; review labor law posting requirements; provide sexual harassment prevention training to managers and supervisors (required by AB 1825 and SB 1343 for CA employers); provide assistance and advice on hiring, termination, COBRA, and other personnel issues. Qualified to perform harassment training due to experience of over 40 years in personnel management and human resources, practical experience in handling of actual investigations for employer, and maintenance of training and certification from labor law attorney.

Host or Publisher California Employer Advisory Council (CEAC)