OSHA Has Launched a COVID-19 National Emphasis Plan
On March 12, 2021, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) launched a national emphasis program (NEP) for COVID-19. OSHA establishes NEPs when it identifies a need to focus its resources to address particular hazards and high-hazard industries.
This NEP will remain in effect for one year or until OSHA amends or cancels the program.
COVID-19 NEP
Prior OSHA guidance primarily addressed mitigating and limiting the spread of COVID-19. This NEP prioritizes the use of OSHA resources to eliminate and control workplace exposure to COVID-19.
OSHA’s interim enforcement response provides supplemental information to the NEP, including:
• Implementing the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan;
• Prioritizing COVID-19-related inspections involving death or multiple hospitalizations; and
• Performing on-site (rather than remote) inspections when practical and safe for OSHA compliance officers.
This Compliance Bulletin presents an overview of OSHA’s updated strategy.
This Compliance Bulletin is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel for legal advice. Design © 2021 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
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