In November of last year, Cal/OSHA passed an Emergency COVID-19 Prevention Regulation promulgating temporary standards designed to protect workers from hazards related to COVID-19.
Cal/OSHA has since revised its COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS), which were adopted on June 3, 2021, and included additional considerations covering vaccinations and required testing, quarantining, masking and other measures designed to protect workers from COVID-19. The revised standards were expected to take effect June 15, 2021.
However, yesterday evening a special meeting was held and the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (the “Board”) voted unanimously to withdraw the revisions in light of the new mask guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Upon reviewing the new guidance from the CDC and CDPH, Cal/OSHA will bring any new recommended revisions to the Board, which could consider new revisions to the ETS as soon as June 17.
Meanwhile, the protections adopted in November of last year will remain in effect.
Please reference our previous posts outlining:
- Cal/OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standards (“ETS”);
- Cal/OSHA’s guidance for employers; and
- The specific steps employers must take to comply with the original standards.
Employers are encouraged to contact experienced employment counsel with any questions regarding an employer’s obligations under these and other COVID-19 related workplace requirements.
Employers with questions or needing assistance with workplace health and safety programs can also call Cal/OSHA’s Consultation Services Branch at 800-963-9424.
As additional guidance is issued, we will keep you informed.
