LA Wildfires Have Cost Some Workers Everything, Endanger Others
As of Jan. 13, the wildfires in Southern California continued to rage, an extremely dangerous emergency killing at least 24 people and costing some employees all they own, while putting others in harm’s way. As the White House, state of California, and City of Los Angeles took steps to respond, employers stepped up as well, instituting respiratory protections in the workplace, providing leave to employees in evacuation zones, and supporting employees acting as relief workers. We’ve gathered articles on the news from SHRM and other outlets.
Major Disaster Declaration
On Jan. 8, President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for California. In a Jan. 9 news release, the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) said, “As multiple, devastating fires continue to threaten Southern California, FEMA and federal partners are leaning in to support the state-led response.”
(The White House and FEMA)
Thousands of People Fighting Wildfires
Thousands of California firefighting and emergency staff have been deployed so far to fight the wildfires and respond to the numerous injuries and widespread damage. Gov. Gavin Newsom issued an executive order noting that the one-week waiting period for unemployment insurance applicants was suspended for all applicants unemployed as a direct result of this emergency.
The executive order also said hospitals and clinics could temporarily waive any of certain licensing requirements to ensure they remain open, among other provisions.
(Office of the Governor of California)
Deaths, Devastation, Power Outages, Evacuations
Some progress had been made fighting the fires as of Jan. 13, but the blazes left at least 24 people dead, wrought a path of destruction across more than 35,000 acres, and caused power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of people. Nearly 200,000 people evacuated and an equal number of people were under evacuation warnings as of Jan. 9. At least 10,000 buildings had been destroyed, including homes, schools, and businesses.
Employer Obligations
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) reminded employers on Jan. 9 of their obligation to shield employees from unhealthy air resulting from the fires. Employers are required to monitor air quality before and throughout the work shift, Cal/OSHA noted. Employers also are prohibited from retaliating against workers for refusing to work in evacuation zones.
(California Department of Industrial Relations)
Other Business Responsibilities
Other employer responsibilities include:
- Letting workers take California paid sick leave for fire-related health issues.
- Ensuring compliance with other leave laws including the California Family Rights Act and federal Family and Medical Leave Act.
- Providing workplace accommodations to individuals with respiratory or other medical conditions.
Pay Issues
When natural disasters strike, pay issues may arise as well. Employers should continue to keep in mind the Fair Labor Standards Act requirements for exempt and nonexempt employees, even in times of emergency.
(SHRM)
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