COVID-19 Testing Update - WJC

Dear WJC OCEA Member,

Thank you for notifying OCEA of your concerns regarding the Court’s handling of a recent confirmed COVID-19 test. You are the eyes and ears of OCEA in the workplace and it is concerned members like you who help ensure the health and safety of every Court worker.

You and others communicated numerous problems with the Court's actions and inaction, including a lack of detail in the Court’s notification to workers, the failure to specify cleaning and sanitization measures, and the ongoing fear of being exposed to COVID-19 in the workplace.

OCEA immediately addressed these concerns with Court Management to ensure the Court acts in accordance with guidelines and directives from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal/OSHA), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Going forward, in the event of a positive COVID-19 test at your worksite, you should receive a Court Alert of the positive test.  For workers identified as having been exposed, the notice will advise you to quarantine for 14 days since the most recent exposure to the worker who tested positive.  You may utilize Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) for the duration of the quarantine if you have time available.

The privacy of any worker testing positive is protected under HIPPA and his or her name will not be disclosed.  For more information on free COVID-19 testing click here https://occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/oc-covid-19-testing-network-those-symptoms.

OCEA continues to encourage you to report safety concerns to your supervisor and workplace Steward and, if your concern isn't adequately addressed, to OCEA.

Here are a few reminders of what you can do to stay safe in the workplace:

• Practice Social Distancing (at least 6 feet apart)
• Wear face coverings around others and in public areas
• Sanitize your workspace prior to the start of your shift
• Wash your hands thoroughly and use hand sanitizer regularly

If you would need assistance with any safety concern, do not hesitate to contact OCEA at info@ocea.org. 

In Solidarity,

The OCEA Team

Publication Date: June 22, 2020