What employers need to know about post COVID-19 return to work
Employers may face liability under OSHA regulations for actions taken before, during and after the pandemic. There is no specific standard covering COVID-19. However, several requirements apply, including Personal Protective Equipment Standards; Hazardous Communication Standards re sanitizers and sterilization; and the General Duty Clause. Milwaukee Business Journal [may require registration]
Pandemic spurs whistleblower complaints
Whistleblower complaints from employees across the country to Fed-OSHA have increased this year compared to last year, 2,293 filed from February through April this year versus 1,767 filed the same time last year. More than 900 are directly related to COVID-19 concerns. WCVB (Boston)
South Carolina OSHA investigating 99 coronavirus-related complaints
South Carolina OSHA inspectors are investigating 99 workplace complaints related to the novel coronavirus as the governor starts to loosen public health restrictions for segments of the economy. Post and Courier [may require registration]
Oregon salon owner says she warned of fine for reopening
The owner of a Salem, Oregon salon who planned to open yesterday against the governor’s stay-at-home order said she was warned opening back up could result in a fine. KPTV (Portland) [with video]
Common mask questions answered
The use of masks and respiratory protection have also become topics of widespread concern. What kind of particulate protective masks can be used to help protect against viruses? What is the difference between the certification levels of N95, KN95 and FFP2 masks? Adotas
Will homemade face masks defend against coronavirus infection?
With the coronavirus causing over 3.3 million cases and over 235,000 deaths worldwide, people are turning to homemade masks in an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. Is it recommended to wear masks any time you go outside, or only in some places? Should you wear face masks even when lockdown lifts and cities reopen? CNET
Low-quality masks infiltrate US coronavirus supply
With domestic production of masks and stockpiles falling far short of demand, recent tests by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health found that about 60 percent of 67 different types of imported masks tested allowed in more tiny particles than US standards normally permit, suggesting a high risk hospitals, local authorities and companies are in many cases paying steep prices for substandard medical gear of uncertain provenance. MSN