Effective November 30th, Cal/OSHA has released a new set of emergency regulations that are aimed at protecting employees from hazards related to COVID-19. These new standards are in addition to all previous rulings with regard to COVID-19. This standard will be in effect a minimum of 180 days, with the ability to be extended if deemed necessary. Below we will be covering the requirements of the regulation, as well as linking to pertinent documents to help keep your agency in compliance.

• Agencies must have site specific written COVID-19 prevention program to address COVID-19 health hazards, correct unsafe or unhealthy conditions. Please click here download a sample COVID-19 Prevention Program.
• Agencies must implement physical distancing, mask wearing, disinfection protocols, improve ventilation, and maximize outdoor air.
• Quarantine employees exposed to COVID-19 and prevent their return to worksite until quarantine ends, and maintain employee pay and benefits throughout quarantine period
• Record, report and allow access to information as required by the Emergency Temporary Standards for COVID-19 Prevention and AB 685.
• Agencies must investigate and respond effectively to COVID-19 cases within one day. This includes notifying potentially exposed employees and provide testing at no-cost to employees
• Agencies must report outbreaks to local health departments
• Employer provided housing: beds must be spaced, and daily disinfection is required
• Employer provided transportation: workers must be screened before boarding, sit apart from each other and wear face coverings
• COVID-19 prevention training is required for all employees, as well as documentation of the trainings.

Please click here to view the full Cal/OSHA standard. Additionally, Cal/OSHA has released a Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ) as well as a one-page fact sheet.