Prevent Worker Exposure to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

OSHA News Release

The novel coronavirus (officially called COVID-19) is believed to spread from person-to-person, primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus is also believed to spread by people touching a surface or object and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or possibly the eyes.

Employers and workers should follow these general practices to help prevent exposure to coronavirus:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• If soap and running water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Employers of workers with potential occupational exposures to coronavirus should follow these practices:

• Assess the hazards to which workers may be exposed
• Evaluate the risk of exposure
• Select, implement, and ensure workers use controls to prevent exposure, including physical barriers to control the spread of the virus; social distancing; and appropriate personal protective equipment, hygiene, and cleaning

For the latest information on the symptoms, prevention, and treatment of coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention coronavirus webpage @ https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

For interim guidance and other resources on protecting workers from coronavirus, visit OSHA’s COVID-19 webpage @ https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/covid-19/ .