Labor Protections and Resources for Workers Impacted by Los Angeles Fires

The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have disrupted the lives of thousands of residents, workers, and businesses. As recovery efforts continue, workers must stay informed about the protections and resources available to them. Here are some essential health and safety measures, employment rights, and resources for workers you should know about

Health and Safety in the Workplace

• Prohibition of Equipment Use: To protect public health, using leaf blowers and similar equipment that stirs up ash and wildfire debris is prohibited.
• Right to Clean Air: Workers are entitled to clean air in their workplaces. Free masks are distributed across the county to help workers avoid exposure to unhealthy air caused by the fires.

Job and Retaliation Protections

• Protection Against Retaliation: Workers can seek emergency or disaster assistance regardless of citizenship status. It is illegal for employers to retaliate against workers for seeking assistance, refusing unsafe work (e.g., in evacuation zones), or reporting workplace safety violations. Los Angeles County prohibits firing, cutting hours, demoting, or disciplining workers who report such concerns to government agencies.
• Sick Leave: Workers affected by the wildfires can use accrued California Paid Sick Leave for health issues caused by the disaster or to care for an ill family member.
• Evacuation Rights: Workers have the right to refuse to work in evacuation zones.

Resources for Workers

General Support and Assistance

Employment Rights Information

• Unemployment Support Workers who lose their jobs or experience reduced hours due to the fires may qualify for unemployment benefits through California's Employment Development Department (EDD).
• Sick Leave Policies: Workers can review California's sick leave rules and their applicability to disaster situations.
• Retaliation Complaints: File a complaint about employer retaliation or unsafe working conditions at www.worker.lacounty.gov.

Contact Us

Affected workers are encouraged to keep accurate records of wages, hours, and other relevant documentation. E ducate yourself about your rights under local, state, and federal labor laws . If necessary, contact us to submit a complaint or request assistance regarding your wage or workplace safety. DCBA's Office of Labor Equity is here to help:

The recent fires have been a challenge for the Los Angeles community, but help is available. By knowing your rights and utilizing the resources available to you, you can navigate this difficult time with support and protection.

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.