California Reduces Safety Inspections as Farmworkers Face Extreme Heat

Cal/OSHA's decreased enforcement coincides with rising temperatures, endangering laborers in agriculture and construction.

Field inspections by Cal/OSHA dropped nearly 30% from 2017 to 2023, with violations issued falling over 40%.
Worker advocates report frequent complaints about lack of shade and water, highlighting inadequate enforcement.
At least 17 workers have died in heat-related incidents in California since 2014, as temperatures increasingly exceed 105 degrees.
A proposed bill aims to improve compliance with heat regulations and ensure compensation for affected workers.
Cal/OSHA faces staffing shortages, with a 37% vacancy rate in its enforcement bureau, impacting inspection capabilities.