With July workplace violence prevention training completed for many California employers and summer heat conditions still top of mind, late summer and early fall can be an ideal time to evaluate what worked, identify gaps, and begin preparing for next year’s training cycle. 

California’s Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) requirements mandate annual training for covered employees, supervisors, and managers, as well as additional training when new hazards are identified or changes are made to the plan. Employers are also required to review and update their WVPP when deficiencies become apparent or following a workplace violence incident.  

Similarly, California’s Heat Illness Prevention standards require employers to maintain written Heat Illness Prevention Plans (HIPPs) and provide training to employees and supervisors. Importantly, Cal/OSHA evaluates training not only on the information provided, but on whether the training is effective and understood by employees. 

Best Practices for Next Year’s Planning 

• Capture lessons learned now. Meet with supervisors and safety personnel while this year’s training is still fresh. Identify common questions, knowledge gaps, or operational challenges that surfaced during training or throughout the summer season. 

• Review and update written plans. Confirm that your WVPP and HIPP reflect current operations, worksite conditions, reporting procedures, emergency contacts, and supervisory responsibilities. Annual reviews help ensure plans remain practical and compliant.  

• Evaluate training effectiveness. Consider whether employees understood and retained key concepts. Feedback from supervisors, incident reports, near misses, and employee questions can help determine where additional focus is needed. 

• Start building next year’s training calendar. Planning ahead gives employers time to assign responsibilities, schedule needed updates and avoid last-minute compliance scrambles. 

Need Help Planning Next Year’s Training? 

Western Growers University (WGU) can help employers review existing training programs, identify areas for improvement, and develop customized learning solutions that support workplace compliance objectives.  

We are also pleased to welcome Raul Leal, WGU’s new Learning & Development Manager. Raul brings extensive experience in workforce development and training strategy and will be working closely with members to support their learning and development goals. Connect with Raul at [email protected] or (949) 379-3825 ext: 3825 

Whether you’re updating your WVPP, refreshing your HIPP training materials, or building an annual compliance training roadmap, now is an excellent time to connect with the WGU team and begin planning for a successful 2027 training year.