VOSHA, Department of Health provide training for Vermonters to return to work
The Vermont Occupational Safety and Health Agency has developed training and other materials on safety measures necessary to return to work amid the Covid-19 pandemic, as detailed in Gov. Phil Scott’s recent order.
All businesses and nonprofit and government entities in operation must complete and document mandatory health and safety training by May 4, 2020.
“As we begin to reopen our economy and get people back to work, it is important that everyone understand the safety measures necessary for accomplishing safe and healthy workplaces,” said Interim Department of Labor Commissioner Michael Harrington.
All employers must provide training and details of standard operating procedures to their employees. Training developed by VOSHA includes the signs and symptoms of Covid-19 and an explanation of how the disease is spread, information on appropriate social distancing and personal hygiene practices and the types, proper use, limitations, location, handling, decontamination, removal, and disposal of any PPE being used.
Employers may choose to adopt an additional training program that meets or exceeds the VOSHA-provided standard, or additional policies and procedures that are applicable to the employment environment and employees’ duties. Training materials can be accessed on the Department of Labor’s website.
— Sarah Asch
