OSHA is dedicated to ensuring that Americans return to safe workplaces that do not put their health at risk as the world continues to grapple with a worldwide pandemic and search for a working vaccine. 

To assist employers and workers with this safe return to work, the agency has released guidelines that supplement the DOL, White House and Local rulings for reopening rules. The focus is to help employers implement the correct strategies needed for social distancing, hygiene, training and workplace flexibility. 

As a business, it is your responsibility to continuously monitor all updates from the federal, State, and local government about community transmission rates and the plans for staying safe. Here are a few of those reopening rules that business should work on adhering to.

Hygiene:

Have the following items available for all workers and customers so they may wash their hands frequently: 

• Soap
• Water
• Paper Towels
• Hand Sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) 

Social Distancing: 

In order to keep safe distances, the following should happen at your workplace:

• Mark flooring with 6ft. Zones for appropriate social distances.
• Post signage around the office to remind everyone about the social distancing rules they must follow. 
• Provide directional signs to help limit traffic flow.

Here’s a closer look at the Phased approach and what each reopening phase entails:

Phase 1 of Business Reopening:  If possible, remote working for employees should be made available. If employees must return to the office, they should return in a limited capacity and adhere to strict social distancing guidelines at all times. Accommodations should be made for at-risk employees.

Phase 2 of Business Reopening: Remote working options should remain in place. Easing into a return to the office is recommended with limited amounts of people at one time and social distancing still occurring. Non-essential travel for work-related tasks can resume. Accommodations should be made for at-risk employees.

Phase 3 of Business Reopening: All work schedules and in-office staff can resume.

Get PPE supplies to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 at your jobsite.