Cal/OSHA’s COVID-19 Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations that require California employers to protect workers from COVID-19 hazards are in effect as of Feb. 3, 2023.
The new regulations are in effect through Feb. 3, 2025, with recordkeeping requirements in effect through Feb. 3, 2026.
California employers should note that:
- COVID-19 workplace measures may be addressed within their written Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) or in a separate document
- the definition of “close contact” is determined by looking at the size of the workplace based on an order of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH)
- the infectious period is defined by an order of the CDPH
- employers must must make COVID-19 testing available at no cost and during employees’ paid time, regardless of vaccination status, and
- for indoor locations, employers must review applicable CDPH guidance and implement effective measures to prevent transmission through improved filtration or ventilation.
Cal/OSHA is in the process of updating its resources to provide guidance in understanding the new regulations. The current COVID-19 Prevention Resources webpage contains a fact sheet that describes the regulations, has an FAQ resource and an updated model program.