What happened?

On January 29, 2025, Cal/OSHA released and updated guidance for managing post-fire cleanup efforts. These guidelines aim to ensure the safety and health of workers involved in fire damage cleanup, especially in light of the recent fires in Los Angeles County.

Overview:

Cal/OSHA has issued new guidelines to protect workers during post-fire cleanup. These guidelines emphasize identifying and mitigating hazards, proper training, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), adherence to health and safety standards, and clear emergency procedures.

Guidance Updates:

1. Hazard Identification: Employers must identify and evaluate hazards in fire-damaged areas, such as unstable structures, hazardous materials, and environmental dangers like ash and soot.

2. Training and Instruction: Employees must receive proper training before beginning cleanup work. This training should cover specific hazards and necessary safety measures.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Employers must provide and ensure the use of appropriate PPE, including NIOSH-certified respirators, gloves, and eye protection.

4. Adherence to Health and Safety Standards: Employers must follow existing health and safety standards, including regulations on heat illness prevention, confined space entry, and managing hazardous materials.

5. Emergency Procedures: Employers must establish and communicate clear procedures, including evacuation protocols, first aid, and reporting unsafe conditions.

Additional Details

• Coverage: Fire cleanup work, including ash and debris removal and cleaning of fire-damaged structures, is covered by Cal/OSHA standards. This work is not considered household domestic service.

• Employee Protections: Directing employees to enter or remain in areas under mandatory evacuation is unlawful. Employees have the right to refuse work in unsafe disaster areas without facing retaliation, except for first responders and certain emergency services workers.

• Resources and Standards: Cal/OSHA provides extensive information and training tools on worker health and safety during fire cleanup. Health and safety standards protect all employees, including those misclassified as independent contractors.

• Effective July 1, 2025, Cal/OSHA will also gain control over workplace safety for some household domestic services.

“Please mark the effective date on your calendar as a reminder to be fully prepared and ready to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.”

Source References

• DIR Worker Safety and Health During Fire Cleanup
• DIR Respiratory Protection During Fire Cleanup
• California Expands Occupational Safety and Health Act Protections to Domestic Workers (VensureHR)

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