OSHA requires that employers train all workers with anticipated occupational exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and OPIM. Training should cover sources of exposure, hazards associated with exposure, and appropriate workplace protocols to prevent or reduce the likelihood of exposure.
Personnel should be trained in a manner that corresponds to their function-specific responsibilities. Training must be offered during scheduled work times and at no cost to the employee. Laboratory training should cover the following:
- Information about how to isolate individuals with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 or other infectious diseases
- Procedures on how to report possible cases
- Biosafety and BSL-2 practice awareness including:
- PPE donning & doffing
- Disinfection capabilities & practices
- Biosafety levels and organism risk groups
- BSC operations (if available)
- Specimen handling
- Waste handling and disposal
There are OSHA standards that apply to these training requirements. Those include:
- PPE (29 CFR 1910.132)
- Eye and Face Protection (29 CFR 1910.133)
- Hand Protection (29 CFR 1910.138)
- Respiratory Protection (29 CFR 1910.134)
- Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200)
