Workplace Violence Prevention Plan

The following statement was released from Caltrans following the SR-74 Work Zone Shooting Incident

Industry Partners,

A recent fatal shooting occurred within a Caltrans construction work zone on State Route 74 in Riverside County. Preliminary information indicates that a dispute between a contractor employee and a member of the public escalated into a confrontation involving firearms. 

This tragic event serves as a reminder that every Caltrans construction project is a workplace where safety extends beyond physical hazards such as traffic, equipment, and construction operations. Safety also includes maintaining a work environment free from violence, threats, intimidation, harassment, and aggressive behavior.

Caltrans Director's Policy DP-18, Workplace Violence Prevention, states: "Caltrans is committed to promoting a safe and healthy work environment and taking appropriate action to protect its employees from prohibited behaviors such as acts of violence, threats, harassment, intimidation, or abusive conduct." 

Deputy Directive DD-22, Weapons Prohibited, reinforces Caltrans' commitment to maintaining: "A safe and secure workplace that protects its employees and the public from harm in connection with its operations."  The directive applies to Caltrans worksites and facilities and prohibits firearms and other prohibited weapons except where specifically authorized by law. This directive is applicable to all Caltrans employees, visitors, contractors, students, and other persons while on Caltrans worksites. 

All contractors and subcontractors are expected to ensure their employees understand the following expectations: 

• Avoid verbal confrontations and never engage in arguments with motorists or members of the public. 
• Immediately disengage from escalating situations and notify supervisors or law enforcement when necessary. 
• Report threatening behavior, intimidation, or acts of violence immediately. 
• Follow company policies regarding workplace violence prevention and employee conduct. 
• Ensure employees understand emergency notification procedures and when to contact law enforcement. 
• Reinforce situational awareness and personal safety practices for all workers assigned to traffic control operations and public-facing activities. 
• Review company policies regarding firearms, weapons, and prohibited items on Caltrans projects. 

Traffic control personnel, pilot car operators, flaggers, and other employees who regularly interact with the traveling public should receive special emphasis regarding conflict avoidance, de-escalation, and prompt reporting of aggressive behavior. 

We request that all contractors and subcontractors conduct a Safety Stand-Down with their employees to discuss this incident, review workplace violence prevention expectations, and reinforce safe and professional conduct on Caltrans projects. 

Thank you for your partnership and commitment to safety.  

Ramon L. Hopkins, P.E. | Chief, Division of Construction

UCON Members: 

This tragic incident reminds us that preplanning and prevention are critical. You must have a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP) in place and employees trained before an incident arises. UCON has developed a Workplace Violence Prevention Program template as part of our Safety Handbook. This can be found in the Contractor Resource Library (member log-in required) of the UCON website. Members are encouraged to customize this model program to meet the needs of their operations.

Implementing this plan will let you establish and maintain an WVPP. To be effective, the WVPP must be integrated into the planning and operation of all your work in the field and the office.

For more information, contact UCON's Chief Safety Officer, Mike Donlon, (916) 834-1896.