On June 10, OSHA issued an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) for healthcare to protect workers against COVID-19. OSHA also issued updated, voluntary guidance for other industries.
The ETS is expected to be published in the Federal Register shortly and will take effect immediately upon publication. Covered employers must comply with most of the provisions within 14 days of publication and will have 30 days to comply with the provisions involving physical barriers, ventilation, and training.
The ETS focuses on healthcare settings where patients with COVID-19 are treated. Fully vaccinated employees are exempt from wearing a mask, social distancing, and barrier requirements when the employer determines there is no reasonable expectation another person with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 infection would be present.
OSHA Resources
Employers can access the following resources for information on the ETS provided by OSHA: