Mandatory CA Anti-Harassment Training: Are You Compliant?

California takes workplace safety and respect seriously. The state has strict laws to prevent harassment, and every employer needs to stay compliant. Whether you manage a small team or run a large company, compliance with anti harassment training requirements is not just smart, it is required by law.

At Employer Advocates Group, we are dedicated to helping businesses stay compliant, protected, and proactive. Our team understands California employment law and guides employers in building respectful, legally sound workplaces.

Why California Mandates Harassment Training

California law (SB 1343 and AB 1825) requires most employers to provide sexual harassment prevention training. If you have five or more employees, including part-timers and temporary workers, you must provide it.

Here is what the law requires:

• Supervisors: Two hours of training every two years.
• Non-supervisors: One hour of training every two years.
• New hires or promotions: Training within six months of starting the role.

This is more than a legal formality. The real goal is to build a workplace culture based on respect, awareness, and accountability.

What the Training Should Cover

An effective anti harassment training program goes beyond the basics. It should equip your team with tools to identify and respond to inappropriate behavior. Training usually includes:

• What legally counts as harassment (it is not always obvious).
• How to report problems safely and confidentially.
• The employer has duty to investigate complaints quickly and fairly.
• How to prevent retaliation after someone reports an issue.

Training can be online, in-person, or hybrid. The key is that it must be interactive, up-to-date, and meet California’s legal standards.

Common Mistakes Employers Make

Even well-meaning employers can make compliance mistakes. Here are a few common ones that lead to problems with harassment training compliance:

• Forgetting to include temporary or seasonal workers.
• Using outdated or incomplete materials.
• Not tracking completion or keeping proof of training.
• Skipping retraining every two years.

Ignoring these requirements can lead to penalties, lawsuits, and damage to your company’s reputation.

Why Staying Compliant Helps Your Business

Compliance is about more than avoiding fines. It is about protecting your people and your company. When employees understand their rights and responsibilities, they feel safer and more respected.

A strong anti harassment training program shows your team that you value fairness and professionalism. It also reduces turnover, builds trust, and helps prevent costly legal battles.

At Employer Advocates Group, we have seen how quality training improves morale and helps businesses focus on growth instead of conflict.

How Employer Advocates Group Can Help

Keeping up with California’s requirements can be confusing. Employer Advocates Group works closely with business owners to ensure every policy, handbook, and training program meets state law.

Here is how we can support your compliance:

• Reviewing your current training materials and timelines.
• Helping you create effective, legally compliant programs.
• Advising on documentation and recordkeeping.
• Keeping you updated on new laws and changes.

We take the confusion out of compliance so you can focus on running your business smoothly.

Stay Ahead of Compliance Deadlines

Do not wait until a complaint or audit forces you to act. Staying proactive is the best way to protect your business. Review your training records today and make sure your team is current.

If you are unsure about your compliance, Employer Advocates Group can help. Our team will review your program and design a clear plan that fits your goals and budget.

FAQs

1. Who must take harassment training in California?

Any business with five or more employees must provide training to both supervisors and non-supervisors.

2. How often do I need to repeat the training?

Every two years. New hires or newly promoted supervisors must be trained within six months.

3. Can online courses count as valid training?

Yes, if the program meets California’s standards for interactivity and content.

4. What happens if I fail to comply?

Noncompliance can result in fines, employee complaints, or lawsuits. It can also harm your workplace culture.

5. Does the training need to be in English only?

No. Employees should receive training in the language they understand best.

Partner with Employer Advocates Group Today

Protect your business and your employees by ensuring full harassment training compliance. At Employer Advocates Group, we are committed to empowering businesses through education, preparation, and strong legal guidance.

Let us help you keep your workplace compliant, respectful, and confident.

Contact Employer Advocates Group today to schedule a compliance review or consultation.