Cal/OSHA Encourages Employers and Workers to Protect Against Exposure to Hepatitis A Virus

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 9, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Cal/OSHA is encouraging employers and workers at risk of exposure to the hepatitis A virus to review preventive measures posted online. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver disease, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, and can be fatal in some cases. Outbreaks have been reported in San Diego, Santa Cruz and Los Angeles counties. 

"Employers must take steps to prevent or reduce the spread of the hepatitis A virus," said Cal/OSHA Chief Juliann Sum. "Preventive measures are essential to protecting workers at risk of exposure."

In outbreak locations, workers who have direct contact with persons who are homeless or use illicit drugs have an increased risk of hepatitis A exposure in settings that include the following:

• Health care and laboratory
• Public safety and emergency medical services
• Sanitation and janitorial
• Homeless services and substance use treatment facilities

A person can be exposed to the hepatitis A virus after coming into contact with objects, food or drinks contaminated by an infected person. Employers should maintain a clean and sanitary workplace and provide proper handwashing facilities and protective equipment. Training on new hazards is required for at-risk workers in outbreak locations to understand how hepatitis A is transmitted and how to prevent infection.

Cal/OSHA helps protect workers from health and safety hazards on the job in almost every workplace in California. Employers and workers who have questions or need assistance with workplace health and safety programs can call Cal/OSHA's Consultation Services Branch at 800-963-9424.

Complaints about workplace safety and health hazards can be filed confidentially with Cal/OSHA district offices. Employees with work-related questions or complaints may contact DIR's Call Center in English or Spanish at 844-LABOR-DIR (844-522-6734).

Members of the press may contact Erika Monterroza or Peter Melton at (510) 286-1161, and are encouraged to subscribe to get email alerts on DIR's press releases or other departmental updates.

The California Department of Industrial Relations, established in 1927, protects and improves the health, safety, and economic well-being of over 18 million wage earners, and helps their employers comply with state labor laws. DIR is housed within the Labor & Workforce Development Agency. For general inquiries, contact DIR's Communications Call Center at 844-LABOR-DIR (844-522-6734) for help in locating the appropriate division or program in our department.

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SOURCE California Department of Industrial Relations, Cal/OSHA