SC&RA Expects OSHA to Issue Emergency Temporary Standard for COVID-19 Soon

(March 17, 2021) - SC&RA is hearing from multiple sources that OSHA is almost certain to issue an Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) for COVID-19 soon. While there will likely be a delay in issuing the rule, it is anticipated that the standard would require employers to conduct an analysis of COVID-19 infection risk to workers and then develop and implement programs based on CDC guidance, such as face coverings, limited contact among workers, frequent cleaning and disinfecting routinely touched surfaces and tools, etc. SC&RA will continue monitoring the situation. Once the ETS is issued, SC&RA will provide information on what is in the standard and how to implement it.
Also related to President Biden’s Executive Order 13999, OSHA was required to launch a national program to focus its enforcement efforts related to COVID-19 on violations that put the largest number of workers at serious risk.  On Friday, March 12, OSHA issued its National Emphasis Program (NEP) – Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).  This NEP targets establishments that have workers with increased potential exposure to COVID-19 hazards. The construction industry, however, was not listed as a primary target for OSHA enforcement efforts under the NEP.
For more information, contact Beth O’Quinn.