Understanding the Retail Worker Safety Act in New York State: What It Means for Safety And Business
The recently enacted Retail Worker Safety Act in New York State marks a significant shift in how retail crime and safety are addressed in the State of New York. The Retail Worker Safety Act (NYS Labor Law, Section 27-e) requires all employers who employ 10 or more retail employees in New York State to implement strategies to reduce the risk of workplace violence to their employees and increase employee safety. All employers covered by the Act must adopt a retail workplace violence prevention policy and provide their employees with retail workplace violence prevention training. Designed in response to a rise in organized retail theft, violent incidents, and workplace safety concerns, the Act mandates stricter penalties for those who engage in retail theft and establishes frameworks to support safer retail environments. It encourages more robust reporting of theft incidents and enhances coordination between law enforcement and retail businesses. By introducing these new requirements and protections, the Act not only aims to protect merchandise but also prioritizes the safety and well-being of retail employees and customers alike.
For the retail industry, this legislation has wide-reaching implications. Store owners and managers are now held to higher accountability in ensuring their environments are secure. Compliance will likely require significant changes in store policies, physical security measures, and employee training programs. Insurance costs may be impacted based on how a business addresses risk, and failure to comply could result in legal and financial penalties. Ultimately, retailers must treat safety and theft prevention as core operational priorities rather than auxiliary concerns. The Act reflects a clear shift toward proactive, rather than reactive, safety measures in the workplace. All new employees are required to receive training in workplace violence prevention. Businesses are also required to update training annually or biannually depending on the size of the business.
This is where security consultants become essential. The Retail Safety Act emphasizes the need for businesses to conduct full safety and vulnerability assessments to identify weaknesses in their current security practices. Security professionals can evaluate factors like store layout, access control, surveillance coverage, emergency exits, and staff preparedness. By conducting a comprehensive review, consultants help retailers develop tailored safety strategies that are legally compliant, practical, and effective in real-world scenarios. These assessments can mean the difference between a business that is prepared and one that is left vulnerable to loss or harm. The assessments are regular requirements and must be done on an annual basis.
One critical area for improvement is the development of active shooter response plans and workplace violence prevention protocols. In some cases emergency silent response buttons are required. In an era where high-profile incidents have shaken public confidence, retailers must be ready to act swiftly and decisively. Security strategies should include clearly communicated lockdown procedures, alarm systems, emergency communication methods, and designated safe areas. Just as important is ensuring that employees receive regular training on what to do in high-stress, high-risk situations. Plans should be reviewed regularly and practiced through realistic drills to ensure readiness.
Beyond emergency response, de-escalation training and violence prevention must also be prioritized. Employees often serve as the first line of defense and need to be equipped with the communication skills necessary to identify and calm potentially volatile situations. Training in nonviolent communication, situational awareness, and conflict resolution can dramatically reduce the likelihood of incidents escalating into violence. By combining these soft skills with physical security upgrades and crisis planning, retailers can create an environment that is not only compliant with the Retail Safety Act, but also genuinely safer for everyone who walks through their doors.
At Conflict International, we can assist you in the process of becoming compliant with the Retail Safety Act. The Act went into effect in March of 2025 and it is set to increase in January of 2026. If you are in retail and want to learn more, please contact us today.