Understanding the Requirements of the Newest Workplace Violence Prevention Law
The safety and well-being of employees is a top priority for every business, and New York is taking steps to address this with the recently enacted Retail Worker Safety Act. Signed into law on September 4, 2024 by Governor Kathy Hochul, this legislation requires retail employers to adopt comprehensive measures to protect their workers from workplace violence. With compliance deadlines fast approaching, now is the time for retail employers to understand the law and take actionable steps to ensure they’re compliant.
Key Compliance Requirements of the Retail Worker Safety Act
The Retail Worker Safety Act applies to retail employers in New York with at least 10 employees and introduces several key mandates:
1. Retail Workplace Violence Prevention Policy
By March 3, 2025, employers must implement a workplace violence prevention policy. This policy should:
- Identify risk factors, such as working late hours, handling cash, or working in isolated settings.
- Outline strategies for preventing workplace violence, such as improved incident reporting systems.
- Include protections against retaliation for employees who report violence or raise safety concerns.
The New York State Department of Labor provides guidance for how state and federal employers requirements differ from those of private employers.
2. Workplace Violence Training Program
Training must also be in place by March 3, 2025. Employers are required to provide interactive training to all employees upon hire and annually thereafter. Training topics include:
- De-escalation tactics.
- Active shooter drills.
- Emergency procedures and the use of security alarms or panic buttons.
- Site-specific information on emergency exits and meeting locations.
The training must also address supervisors’ roles and responsibilities, particularly in addressing emergency situations and previous security issues.
3. Panic Buttons
By January 1, 2027, employers with 500 or more employees nationwide must provide panic buttons in their New York locations. These buttons can be wearable, mobile-based, or installed throughout the workplace and must:
- Alert local emergency services when activated.
- Share the employee’s location with law enforcement.
- Ensure employee privacy (no tracking except during activation).
Steps to Ensure Compliance
To meet these requirements, retail employers should start preparing now. Here’s how:
1. Conduct a Workplace Risk Assessment
Identify factors in your retail environment that could contribute to workplace violence. Evaluate risks associated with the physical layout, employee schedules, and interactions with the public.
2. Draft or Adapt a Policy
Use the Emtrain’s model WVP policy as a guide, but ensure it’s tailored to your business’s specific needs. Collaborate with HR and legal counsel to align the policy with state and federal requirements.
3. Implement a Comprehensive Training Program
Select training tools that engage employees with real-world scenarios, such as de-escalation exercises and active shooter drills. Interactive and adaptive learning tools can improve retention and preparedness.
4. Plan for Panic Buttons
If your business falls under the panic button requirement, evaluate your options for wearable or mobile panic button solutions. Work with vendors to ensure systems are in place before the 2027 deadline.
5. Foster a Culture of Safety
Beyond meeting compliance requirements, focus on creating an organizational culture where employees feel safe and supported. Encourage reporting, provide support resources, and proactively address risks.
Why Compliance Matters
Retail employees face unique safety challenges, from theft and assault to active shooter scenarios. By implementing the requirements of the Retail Worker Safety Act, businesses not only avoid penalties but also protect their most valuable asset: their workforce.
Compliance is also a chance to demonstrate leadership in employee safety. With similar workplace violence prevention laws emerging in other states, aligning with these best practices now can position your business for future regulatory changes.
How Emtrain Can Help
At Emtrain, we go beyond compliance to help organizations build a culture of safety and respect. Our Workplace Violence Prevention Training includes:
- Interactive, scenario-based training to equip employees with real-world skills.
- Data-driven insights to identify and address potential risks.
- Customizable resources to align with specific workplace policies.
Prepare your business to meet the demands of the Retail Worker Safety Act and create a safer, more supportive work environment for your team. Let Emtrain guide you on the path to compliance and culture transformation.
