Safety in the workplace

Last updated April 19, 2023 at 9:16 AM

California has rules to keep workplaces safe from COVID-19. Learn how you can keep yourself protected.

Workplace Safety and Health Rules

Employers must follow workplace safety and health regulations to protect workers. That includes protecting workers from COVID-19.

Follow the California Division of Occupational Health and Safety (Cal/OSHA) COVID-19 Prevention Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations and Frequently Asked Questions to keep your workplace safe. They cover:

  • Masking and other personal protective equipment
  • How to prevent infection in the workplace
  • What to do about outbreaks
  • How to keep employees safe in employer-provided transportation and housing
  • Benefits available for excluded workers

Workers who are at much higher risk of being exposed to someone with an infectious disease spread in the air are protected by the Cal/OSHA Aerosol Transmissible Disease (ATD) Standard.

Examples include workers in healthcare and correctional facilities. Visit the ATD Safety & Health Fact Sheet to learn more.

Employee Protections

You’re protected by California laws that prohibit retaliation for exercising workplace rights. If your employer retaliates because you requested exclusion pay, file a retaliation complaint. Contact the California Labor Commissioner’s Office for help.

If long COVID affects your ability to work, you may be able to ask your employer for accommodations to help you do your job. Visit the US Department of Labor website for more information. 

Learn more about resources on the Post-COVID conditions (Long COVID) – Coronavirus COVID-19 Response (ca.gov) page and the CDPH Post-COVID Conditions (Long COVID) Questions & Answers (ca.gov).

Stay informed