The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced a plan for increased inspection efforts in order to “ensure that employees in high-hazard industries or work tasks” are protected from contracting COVID-19.

As we approach the warmer months of spring and summer and the vaccination rollout continues at pace, many states are beginning to relax the restrictions put in place to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, which in some cases includes repealing mask mandates and social distancing rules.

However, OSHA’s new National Emphasis Program (NEP) will make relaxing these restrictions at work a dangerous prospect. With this new program, OSHA has made it clear that it intends to continue enforcing rules mandating the use of masks, social distancing, and similar measures in the workplace.

A wide variety of businesses can expect increased inspection and enforcement for potential COVID-19-related violations following the publication of this NEP, including OSHA surveys and on-site inspections.

OSHA’s continued commitment to COVID-19 safety in the workplace should sound the alarm for employers wishing to ease restrictions for workers and customers in line with local decisions to relax the rules. To avoid hefty fines or compliance actions from OSHA, familiarize yourself with the requirements of the program and don’t be tempted to break the rules. Per recent guidance from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), you are within your rights to require employees to get the COVID-19 vaccination.

Employers should now take the time to review the OSHA guidance and prepare for potential inspections.

If you need help ensuring workplace compliance, get in touch!