Class Code 3681
Instrument Mfg; Computer Mfg; Telecom Equip Mfg; A/V Products Mfg
Class code 3681 covers California employers who manufacture instruments, computers, telecom equipment, and audio/visual products. This code applies to production, assembly, testing and calibration work that uses precision components and electronic processes. The approved 2026 pure premium rate is $0.464 per $100 of payroll, a baseline figure employers should use when budgeting workers' compensation costs.
What Class Code 3681 Covers
This classification includes firms that build finished electronic devices and the discrete operations required to produce them: printed circuit board assembly (PCB/SMT), component soldering, precision machining of housings, final assembly, functional testing, calibration, and packaging of instruments, computer hardware, telecom gear and A/V products. It covers OEM manufacturers, contract/turnkey electronics assemblers, and specialized instrument shops that perform bench-level repair and calibration. The code applies to production line workers, factory technicians, test engineers, calibration techs, and assemblers working inside manufacturing or controlled lab/cleanroom environments. It does not generally apply to retail electronics sales, pure software development, or construction-related electrical work.
Who It Applies To
- SMT/PCB assemblers and operators
- Electronic test technicians and calibration specialists
- Mechanical/electrical assemblers in instrument and telecom manufacturing
- Quality control inspectors and functional test operators
- Contract electronics manufacturers (CEM/OEM production lines)
- R&D bench technicians performing prototype assembly and testing
Common Job Duties
- Surface-mount and through-hole soldering and rework
- Operating SMT pick-and-place, wave solder, or reflow equipment
- Bench testing, functional verification, and calibration of electronic devices
- Mechanical assembly of housings, wiring and cable harnesses
- Visual inspection, optical inspection (AOI), and electrical testing
- Handling chemicals and fluxes for cleaning and manufacturing processes
- Packaging finished goods and maintaining production documentation
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $0.464 Rate
The pure premium rate of $0.464 per $100 of payroll represents the portion of premium intended to cover expected claim costs before insurer overhead and profit. To calculate the pure premium, multiply total payroll for class 3681 by 0.00464 (rate divided by 100). The final premium you pay also depends on your carrier's loss cost multipliers, experience modification (X-mod), policy deductibles, premium audits and any state or insurer adjustments.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Key Cal/OSHA standards for this work include the Hazard Communication Standard (GHS) for solvents and fluxes, Title 8 requirements for ventilation and local exhaust for soldering and cleaning operations, electrical safety and lockout/tagout for production equipment, and noise and respiratory protection rules where applicable. Employers must maintain an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP), keep Safety Data Sheets (SDS) accessible, provide job-specific training (soldering, LOTO, ergonomics), and document exposures and corrective actions.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 3681
A PEO like Key HR helps manufacturers in class 3681 by ensuring accurate classification and payroll reporting, implementing targeted loss-control programs (ventilation, ergonomics, hot-work controls), managing claims and return-to-work plans to reduce indemnity duration, and leveraging group purchasing to lower insurance costs. Key HR also provides Cal/OSHA-focused training, recordkeeping support, and proactive safety audits tailored to electronics and instrument manufacturing.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Does a small PCB assembly shop qualify for class code 3681?
Yes—small PCB assembly or contract electronics assemblers that perform soldering, component placement, testing and final assembly for instruments, computers, telecom or A/V products are typically assigned to 3681. Jobs must be production or assembly-focused rather than retail, software development, or field electrical installation.
What practical steps lower workers' comp costs for class 3681 operations?
Focus on engineering controls (local exhaust for soldering, machine guarding), ergonomics (adjustable benches, job rotation), PPE and eye protection, formal return-to-work/light-duty programs, strict chemical handling procedures and routine safety training. Accurate payroll coding, timely injury reporting and proactive claims management with a PEO can also reduce your experience modification and premium.
Which records and controls should I have for Cal/OSHA compliance?
Maintain an IIPP, up-to-date SDS files, training logs for soldering/respiratory protection/LOTO, noise and exposure monitoring records if required, and OSHA 300/301 injury logs. Keep maintenance records for ventilation and safety interlocks, and ensure written respirator and hearing conservation programs when exposures exceed limits.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 3681
- Classification
- Instrument Mfg; Computer Mfg; Telecom Equip Mfg; A/V Products Mfg
- Pure Premium Rate
- $0.464 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
Manage Workers' Comp Through a PEO
Key HR provides pay-as-you-go workers' comp for California employers — no large deposits, no audits, better rates.
Get a Quoteor call (800) 922-4133Ready to Simplify Workers' Comp for Class Code 3681?
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