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OSHA COVID-19 Guidance for Construction

OSHA has launched a webpage for construction employers and workers, including recommended actions to reduce the risk of exposure to the coronavirus. Employers of workers engaged in construction, including carpentry, ironworking, plumbing, electrical, utility construction work, heating/air conditioning/ventilation, and earth-moving activities, are advised to remain alert to changing conditions related to community spread of COVID-19 and testing availability, and to implement coronavirus infection prevention measures accordingly.

The OSHA COVID-19 Guidance for Construction webpage includes information regarding:

  • Using physical barriers, such as walls, closed doors, or plastic sheeting, to separate workers from others experiencing signs or symptoms consistent with COVID-19;
  • Keeping in-person meetings (toolbox talks, safety meetings) as short as possible, limiting the number of workers in attendance and using social distancing practices;
  • Requesting that shared spaces in home environments where construction activities are being performed, or other construction areas in occupied buildings, have good air flow; and
  • Staggering work schedules, such as alternating workdays or extra shifts, to reduce the total number of employees on a job site at any given time.

OSHA recommends that employers conduct a job hazard analysis to help determine the hazards to which workers may be exposed; evaluate the risk of exposure; and select, implement and ensure workers use controls to prevent exposure. Hazard prevention topics featured on OSHA's webpage include engineering controls, administrative controls, safe work practices and PPE.