August 20, 2021

OSHA issues updated COVID-19 guidance, OHSA small business panel on emergency response standard, summer safety tips and more

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

OSHA updates COVID-19 prevention guidance

On August 13, OSHA issued updated guidance on COVID-19 prevention measures in the workplace. OSHA is currently recommending that vaccinated workers wear masks when they are in areas of high community transmission or have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19. The guidance also clarifies recommendations to protect unvaccinated workers in processing plants.

OSHA seeks volunteers for emergency response panel

OSHA is organizing a small business panel to discuss a potential standard on emergency response. The standard could apply to employers with employees who provide emergency response services and are currently covered by the Fire Brigades standard or are not specifically covered by another standard. It could also apply to employers with a workplace emergency response team. The Small Business Administration is seeking stakeholders to assist the OSHA panel in a review of the possible standard.

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Comment period for personal protective equipment use is extended

NIOSH is seeking information on personal protective equipment (PPE) use, availability, accessibility, acceptability and knowledge for underserved workers. The agency defines underserved workers as those of an atypical size, minority group or who conduct nontraditional activities. The comment period on request for information has been extended until October 15.

Studies, resources, trends, news

Tips for protecting skin from the heat and sun

An Occupational Health & Safety article explains the hazards associated with working through the summer heat including heat-related illnesses and skin cancer. In addition to providing general heat safety tips, the article discusses early signs of skin cancer and prevention measures.