Massachusetts Begins Phased Reopening, Implements Safety Standards for Workplaces

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Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has implemented mandatory safety standards for workplaces to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmissions as the state begins its phased reopening of businesses.

All businesses in Massachusetts must develop a written plan for how they will comply with these mandatory standards before they can reopen. A template has been developed to assist businesses in certifying they have and will continue to meet the required standards for operation.

In addition, employers must post a completed compliance attestation poster where employees and customers can see it. Employers have the option to print and display Mandatory Safety Standards for Workplaces posters for workers and customers within the workplace.

Sector-specific safety protocols have also been developed for businesses in construction, manufacturing, laboratories, hair salons, barbershops, car washes, pet grooming and office spaces.

For workers, Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey has announced enhanced resources to easily report workplace safety concerns to her office.

“As more people across the state head back to the workplace, the health and safety of our workers is paramount,” Healey said in a press release issued by her office. “With continued anxiety and uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, our office has established easier ways for employees to report unsafe working conditions that need to be addressed.”

The AG’s Office has created a new online complaint form specifically for employees to anonymously report unsafe working conditions related to COVID-19. This includes concerns about cleaning, failure to display compliance attestation posters, hygiene, personal protective equipment, requiring symptomatic employees to work, retaliation or social distancing.

Workers can also call The AG Office’s Fair Labor hotline to report concerns anonymously.

Source: Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General

Topics Commercial Lines Business Insurance Massachusetts

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