On January 29, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (“OSHA”) released new guidance for employers to help keep workers safe from COVID-19 exposure. OSHA has determined that implementation of a COVID-19 prevention program is the most effective way to reduce spread. To create an effective program, addressing the following elements are recommended:
- Conduct a hazard assessment for your work place;
- Identify control measures to control the spread of COVID-19;
- Adopt policies to address employee absences in a way that encourages potentially infected employees to remain at home rather than punishes them;
- Ensure COVID-19 policies and procedures are communicated in multiple languages to accommodate a multi-lingual workforce; and
- Implement protections against retaliation for those who raise COVID-19-related concerns.
The guidance from OSHA provides a comprehensive guideline for developing a prevention program that will help you provide a safe and healthful workplace.
The information contained in this legal update is not intended as a substitute for professional legal advice and its receipt does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. If you have any questions about this information, please contact your attorney at Martin, Browne, Hull & Harper, P.L.L.