While most businesses have dropped mask requirements, many are wondering about the next steps about OR-OSHA’s COVID-19 workplace rules. On March 14th, the agency released adjusted rules to “remove the indoor masking requirements and most of the other provisions no longer appropriate to this stage of the pandemic.”
However, OR-OSHA also stated that other state requirements will remain in effect for all workplaces. Employers in general workplaces, which are defined as all workplaces other than exceptional risk workplaces, no longer need to require masking, but a couple provisions still apply.
General Workplaces must: 1) Allow workers to voluntarily use facial coverings and provide facial coverings at no cost to workers. 2) Facilitate COVID testing for workers if such testing is conducted at the employer’s direction by ensuring the employer covers the costs associated with that testing, including employee time and travel.
In addition to the two requirements above, employers in general workplaces should: a) Continue to optimize the use of ventilation systems to help reduce the risk of COVID transmission. b) Follow OHA, public health, or medical provider recommendations for isolation or quarantine of employees for COVID. c) Provide notice to workers who have had a potential work-related exposure to COVID within 24 hours.
Email to a Friend
