With the COVID-19 pandemic still posing a significant threat to public health, it’s more important than ever to protect your employees’ safety. Employers can look to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for guidance regarding personal protective equipment (PPE) and updated safety standards for the workplace.
Under 29 CFR § 1910.132, OSHA provides employer regulations related to PPE, such as masks, gloves, eyewear, and other equipment that limits exposure to hazardous germs. It is the responsibility of the employer to decide what equipment is needed for the employees’ job tasks, and under 29 CFR § 1910.132, OSHA requires employers to provide that equipment and train employees on how it should be used.
OSHA encourages employers to implement policies that cover infectious disease preparedness and response, enforce basic infection prevention measures, identify and isolate sick individuals, and communicate these updates to employees.
Although some of OSHA’s guidance is “encouraged” rather than “required,” going above and beyond regulations remains the best practice. The OSHA Act regulation, General Duty Clause Section 5(a)(1), states that employers have a general duty to protect employees from recognized hazards. The clause serves as a “catch-all” for any hazards not categorized under another specific regulation.
If you fail to provide a safe and healthy workplace in all aspects, your business could be cited by OSHA under this general duty clause. For this reason, employers need to go the extra mile when it comes to COVID-19 safety.
Adding protective eyewear to your employees’ safety routine is taking that extra step to go above and beyond. When worn correctly and with a mask, protective eyewear can reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19by shielding your eyes from hazardous airborne droplets. Safety glasses are most effective when used in environments where social distancing cannot be maintained.
BrandX Safety glasses have always kept your employees safe, comfortable, and efficient on the job — something that’s more important now than ever. Don’t skimp out on protection when it matters most. Keep your business running with BrandX!
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