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SB S8358C, also known as the New York Retail Worker Safety Act, is a state law requiring retail employers to implement a workplace violence prevention program. Effective March 3, 2024, this legislation mandates; A written Workplace Violence Prevention Policy, Interactive training on violence prevention and emergency response, Panic buttons for employees in qualifying retail settings
This act is a response to the rising number of threats and violent incidents in the retail sector. It aims to create safer working conditions by ensuring employees are trained, empowered, and equipped to handle and report violent situations.
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The Act was passed following an increase in violence against retail workers across New York, including high-profile events like the Buffalo supermarket shooting. Retail employers, employees, and unions advocated for stronger protections, leading to this first-of-its-kind safety mandate.
SB S8358C was created to standardize workplace violence prevention policies across the retail industry and equip workers with real-time response tools like panic buttons—especially for those working alone or at night.
Example 1:
A retail associate is working alone at closing time when a customer becomes aggressive. Without training or tools, she’s unsure how to respond or get help.
Example 2:
A customer harasses a cashier over store policies. The employee doesn’t know the de-escalation protocol and is unsure whether the incident qualifies as “reportable.”
Example 3:
An employee sees a coworker cornered by a shoplifter but hesitates to intervene, fearing retaliation and lacking clarity on their store’s safety procedures.
These real-life situations highlight the need for clear policies, training, and panic button access—all required by SB S8358C.
To meet the requirements of the Retail Worker Safety Act, employers must:
Adopt a model prevention policy or customize their own version
Train all employees annually on safety protocols, emergency procedures, and reporting steps
Equip qualifying staff with panic buttons, either physical or digital, if your company has 500+ retail employees nationwide
Download and customize the Workplace Violence Prevention Policy Template
Train employees using interactive, scenario-based safety modules
Equip staff with panic buttons or mobile safety apps
Translate policy and training materials into each employee’s primary language
Implement a tracking and acknowledgment system for policy reviews
Include safety expectations in onboarding and annual training
Use role-based training for high-risk positions (cashiers, night staff, etc.)
Ensure managers know how to de-escalate and report incidents
Run drills or simulate real scenarios in team meetings
Promote psychological safety and make retaliation-free reporting a priority
Course: New York Workplace Violence Training
Empowers employees with real-world examples, de-escalation strategies, and emergency response actions.
Template: NY Retailers’ Model Workplace Prevention Plan
Created by the NY Department of Labor, this ready-to-use plan helps employers meet the law’s documentation requirements.
Blog: How to Comply with New York State’s Retail Worker Safety Act
Breaks down compliance steps, deadlines, and what HR leaders need to do now.
FAQ Article: Retail Worker Safety Act Requirements
Answers key questions about panic buttons, coverage, and employer responsibilities.
Video Preview: The New York Retailers’ Workplace Violence Program
Three Real-life workplace safety examples filmed in workplace environments to make training memorable and actionable.
