CA DIR Labor News

Cal/OSHA Advises Employers on Heat Illness Prevention

Cal/OSHA has issued an advisory urging employers to prevent heat illness as high temperatures are expected across California. The notice reminds employers of their legal obligations under existing Heat Illness Prevention Standards for both indoor and outdoor workplaces.

DWC Draft ADA Accommodation Regulations for Public Comment

The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has released draft regulations concerning ADA accommodations for public comment. The proposals include a process for blanket accommodation requests for remote appearances and a new form for filing disability discrimination complaints.

California Launches Women in Construction Public Awareness Campaign

The California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) has launched a new public awareness campaign, "Women in Construction," to highlight career pathways in the building trades. The campaign aims to address the underrepresentation of women in construction jobs and complements the state's $50 million investment in grants to promote equitable apprenticeship opportunities.

DWC Adjusts Medical Fee Schedule for Hospitals and ASCs

The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has posted adjustments to the Official Medical Fee Schedule for Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers. These changes conform to the CY2026 Medicare payment system updates and are effective for services rendered on or after March 1, 2026.

Prepaid Card Report on Workers' Compensation Payments

The California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers' Compensation (CHSWC) has released a final report examining the use of prepaid card programs for workers' compensation indemnity payments. The report considers recommendations for the continuation of such programs.

CHSWC Releases 2025 WOSHTEP Advisory Board Annual Report

The California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation (CHSWC) has released the 2025 Worker Occupational Safety and Health Training and Education Program (WOSHTEP) Advisory Board Annual Report. The report evaluates the use and impact of programs aimed at reducing job-related injuries and illnesses among California workers.

California Teens Learn Workplace Safety and Rights at Leadership Academy

The California Labor and Workforce Development Agency highlighted the 22nd annual Young Worker Leadership Academy, which educated teens on workplace safety and their rights. The event aimed to prepare young workers to recognize hazards and advocate for fair treatment, reflecting the state's commitment to informed workforce entry.

DWC Updates Official Medical Fee Schedule

The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has updated the Official Medical Fee Schedule (OMFS) for Physician and Non-Physician Practitioner Services. The update incorporates new Medi-Cal rates and corrects existing sections, and is effective for services rendered on or after March 1, 2026.

Cal/OSHA Fines Company $212,850 for Amputation Accident

Cal/OSHA has issued penalties totaling $212,850 to All FAB Precision Sheetmetal, Inc., following an investigation into a workplace amputation accident. The company was cited for multiple violations, including willful and repeat serious accident-related violations related to machine guarding.