Return Policy Unmasked:
Significant Changes to COVID-19 Guidelines
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) recently announced several changes to the public orders as it relates to face coverings, vaccinations and duration of isolation in CA. These updated changes to the existing guidance are “to continue to balance prevention and adapting to living with COVID-19.” With the Biden Administration planning to end the COVID-19 Health Emergency in May 2023, the goal is to continue to manage life with the virus, but in a non-emergency capacity.
Per the revised State Public Health Officer Order, effective March 13, 2023, a COVID-19 positive person in the workplace will no longer be required to have a negative COVID-19 test to return to the workplace and may end isolation after five (5) days if they feel well, have improving symptoms, and are fever-free for 24 hours.
Effective April 3, 2023, the Guidance for the Use of Face Masks will change and the required use of face coverings will no longer be required in indoor high-risk and healthcare settings. Along with this significant change comes the reminder that although it is no longer mandatory to wear face masks, it is still highly recommended. In addition, beginning April 3, 2023, California will no longer require vaccination for healthcare workers including those in adult care, direct care, correctional facilities, and detention centers.
These recent revelations will mean many changes for employers across the state, with the understanding that safety in the workplace is still vitally important and is the employers’ continued responsibility. CAL/OSHA continues to require employers to have an updated and current Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and COVID-19 Prevention Program (CPP) with few exceptions. The goal of these programs is to ensure thoroughly written safety plans are in place and employees are provided with a healthy and safe workplace. Cal/OSHA has jurisdiction over almost every workplace in California and the importance of adhering to the standards is expected to be well documented and communicated to all employees. Please contact us if you have any questions, need further clarification or would like our help to ensure compliance as we help many clients put IIPPs and CPPs in place.
Author: Marsi Harris
