Question: What topics should employers cover in COVID-19 training for workers?

Answer:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, employers should consider training workers about:

• The basics of how SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, spreads;
• Their risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 on the job;
• Appropriate cleaning and disinfection in the workplace.
• Measures being taken to protect them from exposure and infection, including handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, social distancing, and use of any necessary workplace controls and/or personal protective equipment (PPE);
• What employees should do if they are sick, including staying home and reporting any signs/symptoms of COVID-19 to their supervisor.

Some OSHA standards require employers to provide specific training to workers. For example, there are training requirements in OSHA's PPE standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart I), including the Respiratory Protection standard (29 CFR 1910.134).

The training that is necessary can vary depending on a worker's job tasks, exposure risks, and the type of controls implemented to protect workers. See OSHA's COVID-19 Safety and Health Topics page for more specific information.