Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Resources for Employers and Workers
An outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a new coronavirus (COVID-19) has been identified starting in Wuhan, China. There is no evidence of widespread transmission of COVID-19 in California at this time. While investigations to learn more about the virus are ongoing, workers and employers should review their health and safety procedures to help prevent exposure to the virus.
In the face of the coronavirus, the Labor & Workforce Development Agency (LWDA) wants to keep workers, employers, co-workers, and families safe. What employees are entitled to may be confusing. We are trying to make it easier and spread awareness through this centralized source of info. Use the guidance below to determine what is best for you, your family, and your workplace.
Information for Workers
Support Services for Workers
- Summary Chart: Benefit for Workers Impacted by COVID-19
- Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) – FAQs on laws enforced by the California Labor Commissioner’s Office
- Paid Sick Leave
- Information on Disability Insurance (DI), Paid Family Leave (PFL), and Unemployment Insurance (UI).
- Support Services for those who are Sick or Quarantined, Caregiving, or Dealing with Reduced Work Hours.
Interim Guidance for Protecting Health Care Workers
- Guidance for hospital and laboratory workers on preventing exposure to coronavirus
- Guidance for health care facilities on the efficient use of respirator supplies
Interim Guidelines for Protecting Workers in General Industry
Employer Resources
Employer Assistance
Guidance on Requirements to Protect Workers from Coronavirus
Workplace safety and health regulations in California require employers to protect workers exposed to airborne infectious diseases such as the coronavirus. Cal/OSHA has posted guidance to help employers comply with these safety requirements and to provide workers information on how to protect themselves.
To protect workers and prevent exposure to the virus, employers must develop and maintain the required programs and plans for their facility or operation. Cal/OSHA recommends the interim guidance, educational materials and model programs and plans below be reviewed with an employer’s existing procedures to ensure that workers are protected.
Interim Guidance for Protecting Health Care Workers
- Guidance for hospital and laboratory workers on preventing exposure to coronavirus
- Guidance for health care facilities on the efficient use of respirator supplies
Interim Guidelines for Protecting Workers in General Industry
Educational Materials and Fact Sheets
- Safety & Health Fact Sheet | Aerosol Transmissible Diseases (PDF)
- The California Workplace Guide to Aerosol Transmissible Diseases (PDF)
Model Written Plans and Programs
- Aerosol Transmissible Diseases Model Exposure Control Plan (Word)
- Aerosol Transmissible Diseases Model Laboratory Biosafety Plan (Word)
- Aerosol Transmissible Diseases Referring Employer Model Written Program (Word)
Other Resources