Insurnace Blog

Since July 1, 2024, most California employers have been required to have a written workplace violence prevention plan. The requirement comes from Senate Bill 553, now part of the California Labor Code, and it applies to many small businesses across El Dorado County.

Your Workplace Violence Law Questions, Answered

Who has to follow the law?

Most California employers are covered. Limited exceptions apply, such as certain workplaces that aren’t open to the public and have fewer than 10 employees present at any time, employees working remotely from a location of their choosing, and certain health care settings that follow a separate Cal/OSHA standard.

What does the plan need to include?

In general terms, employers need a written plan that identifies and addresses workplace violence hazards, explains how employees can report concerns without retaliation, and describes how incidents will be responded to and investigated.

Are there training and recordkeeping rules?

Yes. Employers generally must provide training when the plan is first put in place and then annually, keep a log of violent incidents, and maintain related records for set periods.

Who enforces it?

Cal/OSHA enforces the requirements and has been working on a permanent standard. Check Cal/OSHA’s resources for the most current guidance.

Where Insurance Comes In

Workers’ compensation generally covers employees injured on the job, including in violent incidents.
General liability may respond to claims from customers or visitors, though some policies limit assault and battery claims.
Employment practices liability can help if an employee alleges retaliation for reporting a concern.
Specialty workplace violence coverage is available from some insurers and may help with crisis response and related costs.

Steps for Small Businesses

Confirm whether your business is covered by the law
Put a written plan and incident log in place

An employment attorney can help with plan details.

ISU Insurance Services – Atwood Agency in Placerville, CA can review how your general liability insurance and other coverage respond to workplace risks. Policy terms vary. Businesses across Placerville, CA and El Dorado County can reach out to ISU Insurance Services – Atwood Agency anytime.

Three Common Road Setups

The road crosses your parcel

You own the land beneath it, and neighbors likely hold an easement to pass through. Your homeowners liability coverage is usually the starting point if someone is hurt on that stretch.

You cross a neighbor’s parcel

You hold the easement, not the land. California law generally expects those who use an easement road to share in keeping it in repair unless an agreement says otherwise.

A formal road association manages it

When neighbors organize an association to handle grading, plowing, and repairs, that group may need its own liability coverage separate from each household’s policy.

A Road Agreement Checklist

Find out whether a recorded road maintenance agreement exists for your road

Know who owns each section and who holds easement rights

Agree in writing on who handles repairs, snow, and brush clearing

Collect a certificate of insurance from any contractor hired to grade or plow

Ask an attorney about questions involving easement rights or disputes

ISU Insurance Services – Atwood Agency has helped families across El Dorado County since 1919 make sure their coverage fits the realities of rural foothill properties. Learn more about our homeowners insurance options and our long history in the community, or reach out through ISU Insurance Services – Atwood Agency on Pacific Street in Placerville, CA or at our Georgetown office.