California runs a state plan and enforces it pretty hard. I am not familiar with your particular situation, but do know OSHAs Bloodborne Pathogen Standard. I can guarantee Cal OSHA would require your employer to provide personal protective equipment and train (and have records) advising employees of the potential dangers of transmission, minimizing exposure etc.

They typically look at ex employees not quite as serious sometimes, if they think they have an axe to grind. If you report, they have to follow up on it. Probally a letter asking for their story and documentation/pictures to prove their innocence.

FWIW, I looked briefly and didn’t see anything at a quick glance. It pulls up Cali’s BBP standard, but that pertains to healthcare workers and human waste is not covered, unless visible blood.

I know they will have a standard that covers exposure to human feces, it’s finding it might be tough. Worst case scenario, file a complaint and let them cite the appropriate standard.

Possible starting point?

https://www.dir.ca.gov/title8/5192.html

Listen, don’t pay for a lawyer, report to OSHA if you feel you were put in danger. Don’t mention the pay clock, mention only regular exposure to human feces. OSHA is employee safety only and will consider you having a beef if you mention anything outside of an employee safety concern.

You will not get any money. Best case, your employer gets fined and required to correct the situation. You should not have to pay for your own PPE.