On November 6th, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Oregon OSHA) enacted an emergency rule regarding COVID-19. Oregon is now the third state to adopt such a rule, following Virginia and Michigan. The rule requires employers to conduct assessments on the risks their employees face in contracting COVID-19 in the workplace. Employers are also required to have an infection control plan in place. Oregon OSHA plans to enforce the rule through inspections triggered by worker complaints, information from other agencies, or through regular inspections, during which employers may be required to prove compliance. Additional requirements are made of employers in high-risk industries. The rule goes into effect on November 16, 2020, while some provisions will be phased in through January 2021. The rule is expected to remain in place for at least six months or until it is replaced by a permanent rule.
