We know that many companies have already implemented vaccine mandates, and while there may be further delays, OSHA is moving forward with the Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS). The vaccine mandate remains controversial and is yet to be confirmed. OSHA views the ETS as vital to protect employee health and mitigate the spread of the virus in the workplace.
First published in the Federal Register on November 5, 2021, the ETS covers employers with 100 or more employees at one facility or corporate wide. Exceptions include employees working from home or not reporting to a workplace where others are present, and employees who work exclusively outdoors.
The ETS on vaccination and testing includes a proposal for a permanent standard. Since then, many organizations including ASSP (American Society of Safety Professionals) have been actively involved in standards and guidelines. OSHA will begin issuing noncompliance citations after January 10th; however, citations for the testing requirements will not begin before February 9th.
There are several employer requirements such as
- Develop, implement, and enforce a mandatory policy
- Determine vaccination status of each employee and acceptable proof of vaccination from those vaccinated.
- Support paid time off to receive vaccinations and reasonable paid sick time from any side effects experience.
In addition to the ETS, A fact sheet, summary, and FAQs are available from the OSHA website. The Fact Sheet outlines other policy requirements. We are happy to discuss the ETS requirements and to assist in complying with the OSHA ETS Standard.