Cal SMACNA Safety Seminar Highlights Key OSHA & Cal/OSHA Updates
Cal SMACNA hosted its annual Safety Seminar on September 18 at the Bay Area SMACNA office, drawing representatives from more than 20 contractor firms.
Led by Steve Bowers, CSP, CIT, the session covered key updates from OSHA and Cal/OSHA. Among the most significant changes is the revised walk-around inspection rule, which now allows non-employees —such as union representatives — to accompany OSHA compliance officers during workplace inspections. The move has drawn criticism from those who argue OSHA has overstepped its authority.
Cal/OSHA is also advancing workplace violence prevention regulations. A revised draft released in May 2025 includes provisions that let employees report concerns to anyone (not just supervisors) and removes a previous ban on confronting individuals engaged in workplace theft. Employers are now encouraged to train staff on loss-control practices. New indoor heat illness prevention rules were also proposed in May 2025, requiring employers to provide cold drinking water, designate cool-down areas and actively manage employee heat exposure.
Additionally, Cal/OSHA proposed lowering the residential construction fall protection threshold from 7.5 feet to 6 feet to align with federal OSHA standards, ensuring consistency and stricter enforcement. Across the board, OSHA is increasing penalties for safety violations, signaling a stronger emphasis on enforcement, with major updates expected by December 2025.
Bowers also noted the continued value of professional safety certifications like CSP and CIH, which are often linked to higher compensation and leadership opportunities in environmental health and safety roles.