California DIR Reminds Employers and Workers to Prepare Workplaces for Winter Storms and Possible El Niño Impacts
The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) issued News Release 2026-93 in Sacramento on November 13, reminding employers and workers to prepare for workplace hazards this winter storm season as active weather systems begin to move through California. Severe weather, including conditions that may be influenced by El Niño, can bring heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, landslides, debris flows and power outages.
Under Cal/OSHA regulations, employers are responsible for protecting workers from workplace hazards, including hazards created or worsened by severe weather. Employers should review worksites and procedures before storms arrive, update Injury and Illness Prevention Programs and Emergency Action Plans, monitor weather, road and emergency conditions, and make sure workers understand emergency procedures and how to report unsafe conditions.
Employers cannot require workers to report to, or prevent them from leaving, an affected work area they reasonably believe is unsafe, and cannot prevent workers from using phones to seek emergency assistance. Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an emergency proclamation to strengthen statewide preparedness, and DIR is participating in a state task force coordinated by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Workers can call the Cal/OSHA consultation line at 833-579-0927 and employers at 800-963-9424. Workers in California are protected regardless of immigration status.
(Source: California Department of Industrial Relations)
Source: California Department of Industrial Relations
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：加州州议会大厦。照片：加州州府图库，公共领域。 / Photo: California State Capitol. Photo: public domain.
