Cal/OSHA has the responsibility to oversee workplace safety issues and can require an employer to correct any serious workplace safety violations. Cal/OSHA can and does issue civil penalties for such violations.
Under a new law (AB 1634) the Cal/OSHA Appeals Board cannot modify civil penalties for abatement or credit for abatement unless the employer:
• Fixed the violation at an initial inspection or a subsequent inspection prior to issuance of the
citation; or
• Submitted a signed statement and supporting evidence within 10 working days after the date fixed for abatement showing that the violation has been fixed.
What Should I Do Now?
As many of these new laws will impact workplace policies and procedures, it is time to review and update any current policies to ensure compliance.