California employers should review workplace storm hazards and emergency procedures before severe weather arrives, the Department of Industrial Relations said in a Nov. 13 reminder. For agricultural employers and crews, the notice outlines safety responsibilities and worker protections that apply when storms create or worsen dangerous working conditions.
DIR said employers are responsible under Cal/OSHA regulations for protecting workers from workplace hazards, including those caused or intensified by severe weather. The announcement is a seasonal safety reminder, not a new regulation or a notice of a new effective date.
Review plans and worksite hazards
The agency urged employers to review and update Injury and Illness Prevention Programs and Emergency Action Plans. It also called for monitoring weather, road and emergency conditions that could affect employees, and making sure workers understand emergency procedures and know how to report unsafe conditions.
Worksite reviews should identify potential hazards from flooding, high winds, downed power lines, unstable structures, landslides and debris flows, DIR said. Employees assigned to emergency response, cleanup or recovery work should receive appropriate training and protective equipment.
Worker protections and assistance
DIR said employers cannot require workers to report to an affected work area, or prevent them from leaving, if they reasonably believe it is unsafe. Employers also cannot stop workers from using phones to seek emergency help, assess safety or check on others. Certain workers, including first responders and disaster service workers, may be exempt.
The agency said California workers receive workplace protections regardless of immigration status. Workers can reach a bilingual Cal/OSHA representative at 833-579-0927, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Workplace safety complaints can be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices.
Employers seeking help with workplace health and safety programs can contact Cal/OSHA's Consultation Services Branch at 800-963-9424. DIR also provides a retaliation complaint assistance line at 855-526-7775 for workers or family members seeking help with retaliation or immigration-related threats or abuse at work.
