The AAMC submitted comments on Aug. 2 in response to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA’s) interim final rule with comment that establishes an Emergency Temporary Standard for occupational exposure to COVID-19. The letter called on OSHA to delay implementation of the rule and highlighted the AAMC’s commitment to protecting health care workers, patients, and visitors from exposure to COVID-19.
The interim final rule went into effect immediately upon publication in the Federal Register on June 21, and the letter noted that this provided virtually no time for health care facilities to thoughtfully review the rule, understand the requirements, and request clarification. The letter also outlined suggested modifications on the rule’s provisions around patient and employee screening and management, physical distancing and barriers, paid leave, and the mini respiratory protection program.