California Workplace Violence Incident Log: Free Template & Guide
Under SB 553, California employers must maintain a violent incident log. Here's what it needs to include and a free template you can use.
What is a workplace violence incident log?
The incident log is a record of every workplace violence incident that occurs at your business. It documents what happened, when, where, the type of violence, consequences, and corrective actions taken. The log must be maintained as part of your WVPP and available for inspection.
Required fields in the incident log
Date and time the incident occurred
Location where the incident occurred
Type of workplace violence (Type 1-4 or Unknown)
Description of what happened
Consequences (injuries, property damage, work disruption)
Corrective actions taken or planned
Review status (draft, logged, reviewed)
The four types of workplace violence
- Type 1 — Violence by a stranger (e.g., robbery, trespassing)
- Type 2 — Violence by a customer or client
- Type 3 — Violence by a coworker or former employee
- Type 4 — Violence by a personal relation (domestic violence spillover)
Privacy best practices
The incident log should avoid unnecessary personally identifying information. Focus on the facts: what, when, where, and what was done about it. Avoid including names, social security numbers, or other sensitive personal details unless absolutely necessary.
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