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 in place 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)
