The requirement that employers have documented Injury and Illness Prevention Programs (IIPP) has been around since 1991. However, many California employers do not have an IIPP. Cal/OSHA issues more citations under the IIPP standard than any other standard. During a Cal/OSHA inspection, one of the first documents asked for is the IIPP. Failure to have one can carry a penalty for the employer of up to $25,000. All employers with establishments in California, regardless of size or industry, are subject to the IIPP requirement.
An IIPP is a written workplace safety program meant to protect employees. Cal/OSHA requires that an IIPP include eight essential elements:
- Responsibility
- Compliance
- Communication
- Hazard Assessment
- Accident/Exposure Investigation
- Hazard Correction
- Training and Instruction
- Recordkeeping
A general safety and health program may not qualify as an IIPP unless it’s a written program that explicitly covers these eight elements.
To be effective the IIPP must fully involve all employees, supervisors, and management, identify the specific workplace hazards employees are exposed to, correct identified hazards in an appropriate and timely manner, and provide effective training.
Before Cal/OSHA comes to your workplace consult with your attorney, officers, and managers and ensure that your business has a workable IIPP.
The information presented is not intended to be, and does not constitute, “legal advice.” Because each situation varies, and only brief summary information is provided here, you should not use this information as a basis for action unless you have independently verified with your own counsel that it applies to your particular situation.
