OSHA develops interim guidance on preventing worker exposure to coronavirus

by Gulfshore Insurance

OSHA has developed this interim guidance to help prevent worker exposure to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The guidance also addresses considerations that may help employers prepare for more widespread, community outbreaks of COVID-19, in the event that this kind of transmission begins to occur. The guidance is intended for non-healthcare settings; healthcare workers and employers should consult guidance specific to them.

Measures for protecting workers from exposure to, and infection with, the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 depend on the type of work being performed and exposure risk, including potential for interaction with infectious people and contamination of the work environment. Employers should adapt infection control strategies based on a thorough hazard assessment, using appropriate combinations of engineering and administrative controls, safe work practices, and personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent worker exposures. Some OSHA standards that apply to preventing occupational exposure to COVID-19 also require employers to train workers on elements of infection prevention, including PPE.

OSHA recommends employers remain aware of the evolving outbreak situation and adapt infection control measures as needed. The highest risk for worker exposure is in the following industries:

• healthcare,
• deathcare,
• laboratory,
• airline,
• border protection,
• solid waste and wastewater management operations, and
• international travel to areas with ongoing, person-to-person transmission of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.

Click here to view the full release for OSHA.