The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued guidance on its response plan on May 19, 2020, reinforcing its prioritization of COVID-19 cases, specifically targeting hospitals and other healthcare providers. Over the past few months, OSHA has been conducting inspections of healthcare employers to ensure compliance with COVID-19-related guidance. In Louisiana, OSHA issued a serious citation to an emergency health facility in Shreveport for failing to ensure its employees wore proper personal protective equipment (PPE). OSHA had initiated a coronavirus-related investigation after receiving complaints relating to employee exposure. OSHA concluded that facility employees often shared PPE or did not have adequate PPE to wear while treating patients. OSHA's area director issuing the citation commented: "Employers, especially those within the healthcare industry, must comply with existing standards to help ensure workers' safety amidst the coronavirus pandemic. Healthcare workers must be provided proper personal protective equipment to limit the spread of the virus."

OSHA has issued similar citations in other states arising out of COVID-19-related inspections. Most of the citations related to lack of PPE, lack of training on standards, and improper respiratory protection. Continue reading >