The recently signed New York Retail Worker Safety Act is designed to improve safety measures for retail employees across the state. Retail employers with at least 10 employees are required to meet new standards in workplace safety, with specific guidelines for policy implementation, training, and safety devices.

Key Requirements

1. Workplace Violence Prevention Policy: Employers must develop a policy outlining risks and preventive measures, including reporting systems and legal protections. This policy must be accessible in English and employees’ primary languages.

2. Annual Training: Employers must provide interactive training covering de-escalation, emergency responses, and specific safety measures, such as the use of panic buttons. Training frequency is reduced for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, who need to train new hires and then every two years.

3. Panic Buttons: Employers with more than 500 retail employees must provide panic buttons for immediate assistance in emergencies by 2027. Options include wearable or stationary buttons.

What’s Next?

The New York Department of Labor will create model policies and training templates to aid in compliance. Employers can either use these resources or develop their own.

With effective dates starting in June 2025, now is the time for retail employers to review their safety policies and start planning. For support in implementing these requirements, Envision Benefits Group is here to guide you every step of the way.