Revised guidance on masks, face shields, and face covering now in effect
Earlier this month, Oregon OSHA finalized a temporary rule on coronavirus in the workplace. The original draft of the rule included a provision that would have required employers to provide a new two-week paid time off benefit for employees. NFIB helped negotiate the removal of that provision in the final rule.
In a November 6 news release, the agency said, “Oregon OSHA has adopted a temporary rule that combats the spread of coronavirus in all workplaces by requiring employers to carry out a comprehensive set of risk-reducing measures.
“The rule will take effect Nov. 16, with certain parts phased in, and is expected to remain in effect until May 4, 2021. It is a continuation of the guidance produced by the Oregon Health Authority and enforced in the workplace by Oregon OSHA, including physical distancing, use of face coverings, and sanitation.”
On its website, Bullard Law, one of the state’s leading employment law firms, notes, “In general, all Oregon employers must comply with overall safety standards, conduct a pandemic risk assessment, implement an infection control plan and notification process, post the COVID-19 Hazards poster, and conduct employee training.”
Also important for employers to know, said NFIB Oregon State Director Anthony Smith, is that the October 19 revised Statewide Mask, Face Covering, Face Shield Guidance issued by the Oregon Health Authority is now in effect.
Smith highly encourages NFIB members to acquaint themselves with the revisions and requirements of both the new OSHA COVID-19 rule, which can be found in the news release link above, and the Oregon Health Authority’s revised Statewide Mask, Face Covering, Face Shield Guidance, which can be read here.
This article and its links to other groups are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.
Related NFIB Oregon Web Story