As we alerted yesterday, OSHA has issued an amendment to its rules lifting restrictions related to face mask and physical distancing requirements in the workplace. Restrictions are still in place in settings such as health care, public transit, and airports. The amendment also specifically states employees must still be allowed to choose to wear face masks, even if not required to do so. This change is effective today.
OSHA also stated, “…that does not mean that all of Oregon OSHA’s COVID-19 requirements are going away immediately. For the rule addressing all workplaces, examples of measures that will remain in place longer include optimization of ventilation, notification of a positive case in the workplace, and proper steps to take if an employee must quarantine.”
As a reminder, employers should keep in mind that they can have more stringent restrictions. For example, an employer may choose to continue face mask and physical distancing requirements for employees and visitors and continue to require proof of vaccination status.
OSHA will be undergoing a process to review the rest of the rules to eventually repeal them in their entirety when they are no longer needed to address the pandemic in the workplace.
Cascade will continue to monitor this and we will keep you updated once more is known. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!