What Is an IIPP?
Definition
An Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) is a written document that describes how an employer identifies, evaluates, and controls workplace hazards. It is the foundation of a company's safety management system.
Who Requires It
California Labor Code Section 6401.7 and Title 8 CCR Section 3203 require every California employer with at least one employee to have a written IIPP. Thirteen other states have equivalent requirements under their state-plan OSHA programs: Washington (APP), Oregon, Nevada, Minnesota (AWAIR), Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Mexico, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
The 8 Required Elements
Under T8 CCR 3203(a), a California IIPP must address: (1) Responsibility — a named individual with authority to implement the program. (2) Compliance — a system to ensure employees follow safe work practices. (3) Communication — a method for sharing safety information with employees. (4) Hazard Assessment — procedures for identifying and evaluating hazards. (5) Accident Investigation — procedures for investigating injuries, illnesses, and near-misses. (6) Hazard Correction — procedures for correcting identified hazards. (7) Training — safety training for all employees. (8) Recordkeeping — documentation of inspections, training, and corrections.
Construction vs General Industry
The same law (T8 CCR 3203) applies to both construction and general industry employers. However, the content differs significantly. Construction IIPPs address job-site hazards like fall protection, excavation, scaffolding, and multi-employer worksite coordination. General industry IIPPs focus on facility hazards like machine guarding, chemical exposure, ergonomics, and material handling.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Cal/OSHA can cite employers who lack an IIPP or have an incomplete program. General violations typically result in penalties of $1,000 to $3,000 for a first offense. Serious violations carry penalties up to $25,000. Willful or repeat violations can reach $162,851.
Small Employer Provisions
Employers with fewer than 10 employees may communicate safety information orally rather than in writing. Simplified recordkeeping is also permitted under T8 CCR 3203(b) — inspection records may be maintained only until the hazard is corrected. However, the written program itself is still required regardless of company size.
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