The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration ("OSHA") has issued a new poster listing steps all workplaces can take to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus.
The poster highlights 10 infection prevention measures every employer can implement to protect workers' safety and health during the coronavirus pandemic. Safety measures include:
- Encourage workers to stay home if sick.
- Encourage respiratory etiquette, including covering coughs and sneezes.
- Provide a place to wash hands or alcohol-based hand rubs containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Limit worksite access to only essential workers, if possible.
- Establish flexible worksites (e.g., telecommuting) and flexible work hours (e.g., staggered shifts), if feasible.
- Discourage workers from using other workers' phones, desks, or other work tools and equipment.
- Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, equipment, and other elements of the work environment.
- Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved cleaning chemicals with label claims against the coronavirus.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use of all cleaning and disinfection products.
- Encourage workers to report any safety and health concerns.
The new poster is available for download in English or Spanish.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to help ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
