New OSHA Standard Targets COVID-19 in Healthcare

ETS requires employers to help protect workers where suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are treated

By Dan Hounsell


The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently issued an emergency temporary standard (ETS) that requires healthcare employers to help protect workers in settings where suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients are treated. OSHA has determined that employee exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19 presents a grave danger to workers in healthcare settings where people with COVID-19 are reasonably expected to be present and has issued the ETS to address the hazard. 

According to the ETS, “During the period of the emergency standard, covered healthcare employers must develop and implement a COVID-19 plan to identify and control COVID-19 hazards in the workplace. Covered employers must also implement other requirements to reduce transmission of COVID-19 in their workplaces.”

Among the requirements are those related to ventilation, cleaning and disinfection, PPE, physical barriers, and physical distancing when feasible.



June 14, 2021


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Designing a Home Away from Home

Ronald McDonald House Atlanta balances the familiarity of home with the demands of a high-use facility serving families of children receiving medical care.


Stephens County Hospital Becoming Part of Wellstar Health System

The transaction is expected to be completed toward the end of 2026, pending the conclusion of regulatory approvals.


Grafton City Hospital Joins Vandalia Health

The transition follows approval from the West Virginia Health Care Authority and continues a longstanding partnership between the organizations.


Protecting Patients from C. auris Through Bed and Mattress Safety

Managers face an urgent question: What happens when a colonized patient returns to a contaminated mattress?


Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Tops Off New Acute Care Tower

The new acute care tower, designed by FCA, will enhance the hospital’s ability to serve patients by incorporating facilities and expanding its range of services.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.