11/04/2021

DOL Issues Emergency Temporary Standard to Protect Workers from COVID-19

Unvaccinated workers face grave danger from workplace exposure to the virus

This morning, it was announced the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released its emergency temporary standard (ETS) that applies to employers with 100 or more covered employees.

“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on workers, and we continue to see dangerous levels of cases,” said U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh. “We must take action to implement this emergency temporary standard to contain the virus and protect people in the workplace against the grave danger of COVID-19. Many businesses understand the benefits of having their workers vaccinated against COVID-19, and we expect many will be pleased to see this OSHA rule go into effect.”

The White House announced the following details beginning Jan. 4, 2022:

• Covered employers will be required to get their employees vaccinated against COVID-19.
• All unvaccinated employees will be required to produce a negative test on a weekly basis.

Further requirements begin on Dec. 5, 2021:

• All unvaccinated employees will be required to wear a mask in the workplace.
• Covered employers must remove from the workplace any employee who receives a positive COVID-19 test or is diagnosed with COVID-19 by a licensed health care provider.
• Covered employers are required to provide paid-time for their employees to get vaccinated and, if needed, sick leave to recover from side effects experienced that keep them from working.

Employers are not required to pay for or provide the tests unless otherwise required by state or local laws or in labor contracts.

As new information continues to develop, OSAP will keep you informed. 

To read the press release as it appeared from OSHA, please select this link.