OSHA issues modified RTW Guide

OSHA has recently revised their return-to-work guidance for employers operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. The updated 27-page publication is available here. While much of the content overlaps with the previous 35-page guidance, the new version emphasizes the following key updates:

Key Updates in OSHA’s Revised Guidance

• Conducting a thorough hazard assessment that examines potential COVID-19 exposures for each job category and outlines protective measures.
• Clarifying that employers may perform daily temperature checks and health assessments of employees, provided the checks are administered transparently and fairly, and those conducting the checks are protected from infection. OSHA notes that self-checks at home may be more efficient, especially when paired with sick-leave policies that encourage workers to stay home if ill. Temperature screening alone "may have limited utility," according to OSHA.
• Cloth face masks are recommended to prevent COVID-19 spread and may count as administrative controls for workplace safety. However, OSHA reiterates that cloth masks are not personal protective equipment (PPE) and are not subject to training or fit-testing requirements. They cannot replace more protective N95 masks, which are required as PPE in certain settings like healthcare and construction.

This guidance must be used in conjunction with Colorado’s requirements, available here, as well as local jurisdiction policies.