July 31, 2020 • Volume 19, Issue 13 • A twice-monthly newsletter with information about workplace safety and health.
Coronavirus Response
U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia addressed economic re-opening and workplace safety during a visit to Florida.
COVID-19 Enforcement
A nursing facility company faces $40,482 in penalties for failing to fully implement respiratory programs to protect workers from coronavirus.
Pandemic Resources
A wallet card for agricultural workers provides information on staying safe and reporting workplace hazards.
Beryllium Standard
OSHA issued its final beryllium standard for general industry.
Water. Rest. Shade.
OSHA reminds employers of their duty to protect workers from the risks and dangers of heat exposure.
Small Business Reduces Injuries and Costs
A foundry collaborated with OSHA’s On-Site Consultation Program to lower injury rates, and workers’ compensation premiums and claims.
OSHA Safety Partnerships
- Flintco LLC – Office Building Construction Project
- LF Driscoll – University Construction Project
Settlement Agreement
A manufacturer agreed to correct workplace hazards and pay penalties after an OSHA investigation and litigation.
Lockout/Tagout Violations
A lumber and flooring manufacturer was issued $218,192 in penalties following a worker fatality.
Fall Protection Violations
A roofing contractor faces $49,930 in penalties after exposing workers to fall hazards.
Read about more OSHA enforcement cases.
Whistleblower Protection
OSHA ordered a trucking company to reinstate an employee terminated for refusing to drive an overweight vehicle.
COVID-19 Q&A
Is an employer required to notify other employees if a worker gets COVID-19 or tests positive for COVID-19?
Employers must take appropriate steps to protect other workers from exposure in the workplace. These steps might include specific actions as a result of a confirmed case, such as cleaning and disinfecting the work environment, notifying other workers to monitor themselves for signs/symptoms of COVID-19, or implementing a screening program in the workplace. OSHA does not require employers to notify other employees if one of their coworkers gets COVID-19.
The CDC Guidance on Business and Employers recommends employers determine which employees may have been exposed to the virus and inform employees of their possible exposure while maintaining confidentiality.