In an effort to bolster safety in the workplace, recent legislative revisions mandate the enforcement of The Public Employer Workplace Violence Prevention Act (The Act). This legislation, which requires public employers to implement effective workplace violence prevention policies, has now been expanded to encompass school districts and BOCES (Boards of Cooperative Educational Services).
As per the former provisions, these educational institutions were exempted from The Act due to pre-existing requirements for the formulation of school safety plans. However, the law has since been reviewed and signed into existence by the governor, extending The Act’s stipulations to these educational entities as well.
These policy shifts, despite their direct impact only on school districts and BOCES, unarguably stand as a clarion call to all public employers, underscoring the importance of solid workplace violence prevention measures. Couched as they are in a time when the safety of employees and students cannot be taken for granted, organizations would do well to revisit their internal safety protocols.
Undeniably, this is a significant stride by the government towards creating healthier and safer work environments. Remember, we should endeavor as a public and/or legal body, to proactively bridge any potential gaps in policy compliance and the overall safety, security, and well-being of employees and students alike.