Office of Worker Health & Safety’s role in disaster response
The Office of Worker Health and Safety and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) strives to ensure the health and safety of workers is prioritized before, during, and after an emergency event. We do this through directly engaging with workers, employers, unions, worker centers, community-based organizations, philanthropic foundations, academic partners, government agencies, occupational health subject-matter experts, and small businesses. Our office supports workers and communities directly impacted by a specific emergency event, or pending public health threat, partnering with Certified Worker Organizations through LACDPH’s Public Health Councils Program to reach workers in low-wage and high hazard industries. We participate in the Department’s Incident Command System (ICS) emergency response structure, and coordinate with various county and state government agencies to connect impacted workers and businesses with information and resources. Our team develops resources and offers training and technical assistance with the goal of promoting safe workplace practices, safeguarding health, and preventing occupational-related illness, injuries, and fatalities.
Workplace Health & Safety: Wildfire Smoke:
Leaf Blower Complaint Line Flyer (PDF):
January 19, 2025: Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory:
Returning Home After a Fire:
Wildfire Smoke Factsheet:
What You Should Know About Air Purifiers:
Clean-Up After a Fire FAQs:
How to Clean Up Smoke and Soot from a Fire:
Precautions When Assessing Your Property After a Fire:
LA County Resources for Schools:
Additional Fire Recovery Guidance for Residents and Businesses:
H5 Bird Flu Worker Safety Handouts:
Indoor Heat Standard:
Worker Health and Safety During Fire Cleanup:
Worker Protection from Wildfire Smoke:
Protecting Outdoor Workers Exposed to Smoke from Wildfires:
Worker Health & Safety - Protecting Yourself During Wildfire Cleanup:
Respiratory Protection During Fire Cleanup:
Personal Protective Equipment During Fire Cleanup:
January 15, 2025: Health Officer Issues Order for Safe Removal, Transport, and Disposal of Fire Debris:
Cal/OSHA Tree Work Regulations:
Cal/OSHA Heat Illness Prevention:
Smoke Exposure in the Workplace:
Wildfire Smoke Worker Safety Protections: Know Your Rights:
FEMA - Citizenship Status and Eligibility for Disaster Assistance FAQ:
NIOSH: Hazards During Wildland Fire Cleanup:
AQMD: Wildfire Smoke and Ash Health Safety Tips:
Medications, Medical Supplies, and Equipment for People Affected by the LA County Fires:
Mental Health and Stress After an Emergency:
DMH Disaster Mental Health Resources:
SAMHSA Wildfire Page:
Wildfires & Mental Health:
Coping With the Loss of a Loved One:
SAMHSA Tips for Survivors of a Disaster or Other Traumatic Event: Coping with Retraumatization:
24/7 help in finding disaster services, support or referrals:
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health:
