During the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic, government agencies have been making an effort to reduce the health risks among citizens. One of the most significant sources of infection is the workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued out citations to employers that failed to provide adequate COVID-19 protections to keep employees from exposure. The agency announced that violations amounted to nearly $3.8 million since the beginning of the pandemic.
Since March, government agents have been conducting inspections to ensure that employers are providing appropriate virus protection to their employees. In various essential industries, such as food service, construction, and heath care, the OSHA issued out various citations.
What Violations Led to the OSHA Citations?
A total of 295 OSHA inspections took place between mid-March and December 24, 2020. Violations included the following infractions:
- Failure to put into effect a respiratory protection plan to protect employees.
- Poor implementation of employee protections to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Lack of a plan to ensure proper fit and use of protective respirators and other personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Failure to report work injuries, illnesses, and fatalities in the workplace.
- Improper or missing recordkeeping regarding workplace instances of illness or injury.
- A lack of compliance with the OSHA’s General Duty Clause.
What Industries Had the Most Infractions?
As represented by the citations listed in OSHA’s announcement, an overwhelming majority of the violations occurred in health care settings. In fact, the infractions that appeared on the list that were cited in Pennsylvania occurred exclusively in health care settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers. The share of the violations found in Pennsylvania alone amount to nearly $120,000 since last July.
What Should I Do if I Have a Work Injury?
If one is injured or contracts a work illness, they are entitled to Workers’ Compensation. For help with a claim, it is advisable to speak to a lawyer. A lawyer will ensure that their client’s rights are protected and that they receive necessary compensation.
Media Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Protect the Rights of Injured and Sick Employees
Workers’ Compensation benefits can pay for the medical treatment you have acquired as a result of your work illness or injury. A Media Workers’ Compensation lawyer at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello is ready to help you with your case. Contact us online or call us at (610) 892-4940 for a free consultation today. Located in Media, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lancaster, Montgomery County, Norristown, Philadelphia, Reading, and West Chester, Pennsylvania.