The outbreak of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has created a number of questions and compliance challenges for employers. To help employers deal with the outbreak of Coronavirus, OSHA has developed a new resource page found here.
While there is no specific OSHA standard covering Coronavirus at this time, OSHA highlighted the following standards for employers to consider in relation to the outbreak:
- The General Duty Clause: Requires employers to provide a workplace that that is free from recognized hazards that are causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm.
- Personal Protective Equipment Standards: This standard requires use of gloves, eye and face protection, and respiratory protection to prevent identified hazards.
- Bloodborne Pathogens Standard—Applies to occupational exposure to human blood and other potentially infectious materials.
- Recordkeeping and Reporting—Most employers with more than 10 employees are required to keep a record of serious work-related injuries and illnesses. Coronavirus incidents may qualify as recordable illnesses.
Employers should keep in mind that there are twenty-eight OSHA-approved State Plans, operating statewide occupational safety and health programs. State Plans are required to have standards and enforcement programs that are at least as effective as OSHA’s and may have different or more-stringent requirements. Some of these state standards may create additional compliance requirements related to Coronavirus.
Finally, Section 11(c) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, 29 USC 660(c), prohibits employers from retaliating against workers for raising concerns about safety and health conditions. Employers should keep these requirements in mind if an employee raises concerns about Coronavirus.
Business Continuity Planning Reminder
If your business relies on suppliers or partners based in China, be sure to review your business continuity plans and have a crisis management plan in place that anticipates the potential impact to your employees and operations. Have alternate solutions in place to ensure access to the products and services you need to avoid disruption to your business and revenue streams.
