California employees have wrapped up their first full work week under Governor Gavin Newsom’s mandate for a four-day work week that began on July 1. Besides complaints about parking, workers are now raising concerns about unsanitary conditions in government buildings.
The Union Service Employees International Union Local 1000 has reported instances of “unsafe or potentially unsafe working conditions,” particularly within the Office of Industrial Relations building in Lodi.
Last month, the union announced that Legionella bacteria had been found in the building, affecting a water line connected to an ice machine.
This bacteria can lead to serious pneumonia when contaminated water is swallowed and is often found in “artificial water production systems,” according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Ministry of Industrial Relations stated it is actively addressing the matter, which includes cleaning plumbing fixtures and water systems. They also promised to keep staff informed and take necessary precautions.
“DIR is sharing these findings with rental property managers and coordinating corrective actions,” a spokesperson remarked.
Interestingly, there’s a noted history of bacterial issues in state buildings.
The union mentioned they are keeping an eye on other sites that have had similar incidents, including the California Public Employees’ Retirement System offices.
Legionnaires’ disease bacteria have also allegedly been found in Reynoldsville.
Additionally, the union is flagging other concerns. A bed bug issue was flagged at the California Department of Education last month. Fallon Okwosa, Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of General Services, stated that immediate steps were taken.
“It’s not accurate to say there’s an ‘invasion’ in the building, nor that DGS refused to treat it entirely,” Okwosa remarked, while noting that treating the whole building is under consideration.
There have been other pest sightings too, such as cockroaches, according to the union.
“If states are going to mandate workers return to offices, they must ensure those environments are safe,” the SEIU asserted. “State employees deserve fair wages, affordable healthcare, the option to work remotely, and a safe workplace.”
The union is currently in contract negotiations with the state regarding fair wages and teleworking. Notably, the return-to-office requirement has been a sticking point, with Newsom remaining firm on the issue.
“I’m happy to see people getting back to work,” Newsom stated in a recent press conference. “It’s beneficial for their mental health.”
