Businesses in California are defying Cal-OSHA fines over COVID safety violations in the workplace.
The Sacramento Bee examined millions of dollars in fines across a number of business sectors and found only three percent were paid to the state. Legal experts say the COVID violation penalties are higher than other workplace fines, which is why businesses are paying lawyers to appeal on their behalf. However, health officials note many of these violations stem from workplace COVID risks that could have been mitigated if personal protective equipment was provided to workers.
California DIR said Cal/OSHA is enforcing these revised COVID standards by investigating complaints from workers, and referrals from non-workers. It's also issuing citations for businesses violating these regulations.