Helpline

Doctor’s Note Not a Requirement for Using Paid Sick Leave

Can I require a doctor’s note after an employee has been out sick for three consecutive days? The answer to this question depends on...

Revised Rule on ‘Floor Openings’ Fall Protection Takes Effect Oct. 1

What is happening with the fall protection standard that Cal/OSHA has been working on since 2019? The Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (OSHSB) has...

Fight without Witnesses Triggers Workplace Violence Prevention Rule

We had a physical fight break out between two employees. Does this type of situation trigger workplace violence rules and requirements? The short answer is:...

Who Is a Volunteer? Best Practices for Adult and Minor Volunteers

We are a nonprofit organization, and have an on-site library staffed by volunteers. We want to invite youth/minors to volunteer for these roles as...

Deductions from Employee Wages Not Allowed Except in Limited Cases

One of our employees is continually short on their cash drawer. Can we deduct the shortage from the employee’s tips if the employee agrees...

Signed Blanket Meal Break Waivers OK Under Certain Conditions

Can our new hires sign one-time blanket meal break waivers, or does the employee need to sign a written waiver each time he or...

How to Respond to Federal Request for Documents Related to Form I-9s

We received a Notice of Inspection from the federal government requesting documents related to our Form I-9s and other business documents. How do we...

Reducing an Exempt Employee’s Salary? Proceed with Extreme Caution

We have an employee who is classified as an exempt administrative employee and is paid $70,000 a year. He wants to work four days...

Personal Cell Phone Use for Work: How to Figure Reimbursement Rate

Our employees use their personal cell phones at work — hourly employees use an app on their phones to clock in and out and...

Residential Construction: Fall Protection Trigger Height Drops to 6 Feet

Has Cal/OSHA adopted new regulations to protect construction workers from falls on residential construction projects? The Cal/OSHA Standards Board has adopted revisions to various sections...