Employer’s Emergency Storm Reminders

Employer’s Emergency Storm Reminders

Thunder, rain and lightning are quickly moving back into the Central Valley today.  If you haven’t already done so, we recommend employers have an adequate emergency action plan, as required by Cal/OSHA.

This planning may include:

• Keeping any generators outdoors rather than indoors for proper ventilation, and ensure they are properly grounded.

• Having some emergency back-up power to illuminate the exit signs and pathway.

• In case of a power outage, shut off any electrically powered equipment that was operating when the power went out.

• All powered doors must be able to be opened manually in the event of a power failure.

What about paying employees if I send them home?

If the power goes out and we send employees home since there is no work to complete or proper lighting to work, do I have to pay Reporting Time Pay (1/2 of normally-scheduled shift) or pay them for the rest of the day?

No. Reporting time pay does NOT apply when:

• Public utilities fail, such as water, gas, electricity or sewer.

• Work is interrupted by an ‘act of God’ or other causes not within the employer’s control

Stay safe and dry!  Call us at Sierra HR Partners if we can assist you.  559.431.8090.