In January, the Cal/OSHA Standards Board (OSHSB) adopted new regulations intended to prevent and reduce workplace injuries suffered by housekeepers in the hotel and hospitality industry. The new regulations, which go into effect on July 1st, require California hotel (and other lodging) employers to adopt a Musculoskeletal Injury Prevention Program (MIPP) to complement the Injury and Illness Prevention Plan (IIPP), which should already be in place. The MIPP must include:
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Procedures to identify and evaluate housekeeping hazards through worksite evaluations.
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Procedures to investigate musculoskeletal injuries.
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Methods to correct identified hazards.
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Training of employees and supervisors on safe practices and controls (both, upon hire and annually thereafter).
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Record retention and a process for reporting injuries to the employer.
