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Occupational Health Branch

Occupational Health Watch: July 2018

Preventing Valley Fever in Construction Workers

A worker digs in dusty a trench as a backhoe dumps dirt behind him.California saw a big increase in new Valley fever cases in 2016 and again in 2017. The Occupational Health Branch offered a free webinar on Valley fever in construction work on August 21. It includes findings from OHB investigations and a California employer sharing how Valley fever impacted his employees and business. You can view the recorded webinar online (password: VFeverAug21).

People who work outdoors in California's Central Valley and other locations, especially workers who dig or disturb soil, are at risk for this illness that can cause disability or even death. Cal/OSHA investigates violations involving Valley fever and cites employers who fail to protect workers.

OHB investigates Valley fever cases linked to worksites and offers education and technical assistance. Our updated resources include printed posters to alert workers. We also promoted Valley Fever Awareness Month on social media in August.


Photo: Workers who disturb soil are at risk for Valley fever.

Resources

Recorded Webinar: Valley Fever in Construction – password: VFeverAug21

Work-Related Valley Fever web page – fact sheets, posters, and trainings

Protection from Valley Fever – Cal/OSHA web page


Email Occupational Health Watch (OHW@cdph.ca.gov) with feedback or change of address.

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