OSHA launches COVID-19 National Emphasis Program

Members

As expected, OSHA has developed additional guidance and inspection plans in response to the ongoing risk of COVID.  The National Emphasis Program serves to protect high risk workers from COVID-19 hazards. The program also prioritizes employers that retaliate against workers who complain about unsafe or unhealthful conditions.  OSHA also updated its Interim Enforcement Response Plan to conduct more site inspections based on COVID risks. Details can be found at https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/enforcement/directives/DIR_2021-01_CPL-03.pdf

While our Member businesses may not be specifically listed in the OSHA appendix for immediate inspections, our industry has been subject to OSHA inspections and enforcement due to COVID exposure so should plan on potential inspections under in this OSHA Program.  Members are counseled to continue their robust COVID mitigation plans, and take appropriate and timely action if any suspected COVID case arises at their location.

Additional COVID information can be found on the Signal Mutual website or feel free to reach out to your regional safety contact.