Mandatory Sexual Harassment Prevention Training in California: SB 1343 Compliance Checklist
Under California Senate Bill 1343 (SB 1343), all employers with 5 or more employees must provide interactive sexual harassment prevention training to all staff members every two years. This covers all hourly, seasonal, W-2, part-time, and full-time personnel.
The state mandates specific durations and formats for this training to be legally compliant. Traditional static slide-reading models do not satisfy the interactive training requirements enforced by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD).
SB 1343 Timeline & Operational Guidelines:
1. Training Durations: Non-supervisory employees must receive at least 1 hour of interactive training. Supervisory employees must receive at least 2 hours.
2. Timing Requirements: New hires must complete compliance training within 6 months of hire. Supervisory employees must complete training within 6 months of assuming their supervisory role.
3. Documentation and Records: Employers must maintain all completion records, certificates, and log files for a minimum of 2 years, showing the dates, trainee names, and certified trainer credentials.
4. Interactive Components: Training must feature interactive scenarios, Q&A sections, and real-time knowledge checks to guarantee active participation.
Key Takeaways for W-2 Employers:
- Training is mandatory for all employers with 5 or more staff members.
- Supervisors require 2 hours of training; non-supervisory staff require 1 hour.
- Re-training must occur every 2 years from the last certification date.