State News

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA intends to develop separate emergency temporary standards to address the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and then expand them into a permanent standard on infectious diseases, according to a tentative timeline released by the agency June 26.

Oakland, CA — Employers are responsible for protecting workers from heat illness, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health – also known as Cal/OSHA – reiterates in a recent reminder.

Tumwater, WA — New guidance from the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries is intended to help employers select the proper masks or facial coverings for workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lansing, MI — Michigan OSHA’s Consultation Education and Training Division has published guidance intended to prevent and control manufacturing worker exposure to COVID-19.

Minneapolis — Recently released guidance from the state of Minnesota details steps employers in the meatpacking industry should take to reduce worker exposure to COVID-19.

Minneapolis — The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry has published a template, instructions and checklist guidelines for a COVID-19 preparedness plan – a requirement for nonessential businesses that intend to reopen during the pandemic.

Salem, OR — In response to a spike in COVID-19-related complaints received in March and early April, Oregon OSHA has begun conducting spot checks “to verify that employers are complying with requirements – including closures to the public – aimed at curbing the coronavirus pandemic.”

Salem, OR — Oregon OSHA is inviting all employers and workers in the state to help raise awareness and promote “the value of workplace safety and health” by taking part in the agency’s 17th annual Safety Break for Oregon.

Oakland, CA — In response to the coronavirus outbreak, the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health – or Cal/OSHA – has published interim guidance on requirements for health care employers to protect workers from exposure.

Tumwater, WA — Are you a janitorial worker in Washington state? If so, the Department of Labor & Industries is looking for you to take part in a statewide survey on the workload, job tasks and hazards facing custodial services employees.