What Is the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation (CHSWC)?

The Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation (CHSWC) is a public body established to improve how California’s workers’ compensation and workplace safety systems function. While it does not manage individual claims, it plays a key role in shaping the rules, procedures, and laws that impact injured workers and employers across the state.

What Does the CHSWC Do?

CHSWC conducts research, monitors performance, and provides policy recommendations to help improve both workers’ compensation and occupational health and safety. Its work focuses on:

• Studying how benefits are delivered and where delays or breakdowns occur
• Reviewing workplace safety programs to help reduce injuries and fatalities
• Advising lawmakers and regulatory agencies on system improvements
• Hosting public meetings to gather input from stakeholders, including injured workers

Who Serves on the CHSWC?

The Commission is made up of eight members:

• Four public members appointed by the Governor, with two representing labor and two representing employers
• Four ex officio members who represent state agencies involved in labor, safety, and compensation

This structure ensures a balance of interests and provides a forum for labor and management to work together on system improvements.

How Does CHSWC Affect Injured Workers?

Although CHSWC does not have authority over individual claims, its work often leads to policy changes that affect:

• The availability and delivery of medical care
• The claims process, including how quickly benefits are approved or denied
• Rules related to return-to-work programs and vocational rehabilitation
• Oversight of how insurance carriers and claims administrators handle cases

By identifying problem areas and recommending legislative or regulatory changes, CHSWC helps maintain a system that is more fair, efficient, and responsive to the needs of injured workers.

Learn More About Your Rights

If you are dealing with delays, denials, or uncertainty in your workers’ compensation case, legal guidance can help. At the Law Offices of Norman J. Homen, we help injured workers navigate California’s workers’ compensation system and protect their rights every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation.