Cal/OSHA extends workplace S&H protections to domestic workers

Effective July 1, Cal/OSHA has extended workplace safety and health laws to protect domestic workers. This allows Cal/OSHA to enforce regulations for employees performing tasks such as caregiving, house cleaning, and gardening. Domestic employers must provide their employees with:

• Safe tools and equipment,
• Hazard training, and
• Protections against unsafe working conditions.

These laws apply to businesses that employ both temporary and permanent domestic service workers. Additionally, employers must:

• Establish, implement, and maintain an effective injury and illness prevention program;
• Identify, evaluate, and correct workplace hazards;
• Provide employees with personal protective equipment; and
• Report serious workplace injuries or fatalities to Cal/OSHA immediately.

Employers and workers can find more information about the new protections using Cal/OSHA’s Domestic Service Workers Guidance and Resources webpage.