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What are the state laws and regulations concerning workplace safety in California, and how can I ensure that my business complies with them?

Picture of Chris Battis By   ·  1 minute read

California Workplace Safety Regulations

California has rigorous workplace safety regulations in place to protect employees from harm. Below is an overview of some of the primary state laws and regulations regarding workplace safety and suggestions for compliance.

1. California Occupational Safety and Health Act (CAL/OSHA)

CAL/OSHA regulations require employers to identify and control hazards in the workplace, conduct regular safety inspections, and provide employee training on safety hazards and precautions. Employers should develop and implement an injury and illness prevention program (IIPP) that includes procedures for identifying, evaluating, and addressing workplace hazards.

2. Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

California employers must also comply with the WHMIS, which provides guidelines for the safe use, handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous materials in the workplace. Employers must provide employees with access to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all hazardous substances they use.

3. Employment and labor laws

Employers must comply with state and federal employment and labor laws, such as minimum wage requirements, overtime pay, meal and rest breaks, and anti-discrimination laws. Safe and healthy working conditions are required by labor laws, and employers must also provide prompt and effective medical treatment to injured workers.

Suggestions for compliance:

  1. Develop an IIPP that includes hazard identification and control, training, inspections, and record-keeping.
  2. Provide employees with WHMIS training and ensure that MSDS for all hazardous substances used in the workplace are accessible.
  3. Provide employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) and training on its proper use.
  4. Comply with all employment and labor laws, including prompt medical treatment for injured workers.
  5. Conduct regular safety inspections to identify and correct hazards in the workplace.
  6. Keep detailed records of all work-related injuries and illnesses.

Limitations/Exceptions: Employers with fewer than ten employees can have an IIPP that is less formal, and hazardous materials only need to be tracked if they exceed certain minimum quantities.

Further Action: Employers should consult with an attorney or a CAL/OSHA consultant to ensure that their IIPP and other safety policies are compliant with all applicable regulations.