The International Sign Association (ISA) has announced that OSHA has reversed course on an important aspect of COVID-19 and now labels COVID-19 as a recordable illness, if:
(1.) The case is a confirmed case of COVID-19, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC);
(2.) The case is work-related as defined by 29 CFR § 1904.5; and
(3.) The case involves one or more of the general recording criteria set forth in 29 CFR § 1904.7.
In a May 19 memo, OSHA notes that it can be difficult to determine if the illness is work-related, especially when an employee has experienced exposure inside and outside the workplace. Companies, though, must make a “reasonable effort” to make that determination.
Companies with fewer than ten employees do not have to abide by the record-keeping requirements, according to EHS Today.
OSHA also has stepped up its inspections, issuing new guidance to inspectors. In a memo, also issued May 19, OSHA noted that its staff would prioritize COVID-19 inspections. OSHA had said in April that it would consider “good faith” efforts of employers, but reversed course in May.
To check out ISA’s guidance on completing the forms related to the record-keeping requirement, click HERE.
NOTE: Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash.
