Novel Workplace Violence Rule Signals New Approach

The latest draft California regulation addressing violence in the workplace could put employers in a sticky spot if their workers act in self-defense while on the job.

The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is considering removing a provision that discourages companies from asking its employees to deal with anyone suspected of criminal activity, such as shoplifting. Instead, it would bar employers from retaliating against staff who engage in lawful acts of self-defense.

The proposed pivot is the latest novel idea offered by California as part of its development of its first-of-its-kind state workplace violence rule that applies ...