Virginia Adopts Permanent Standard for COVID-19 Workplace Protections

On January 13, 2021, the Virginia Safety and Health Codes Board adopted a Permanent Standard for COVID-19 Workplace Protections. The Permanent Standard supersedes the Emergency Temporary Standard that was adopted in August 2020.

The Permanent Standard heads to Governor Ralph Northam for review. If Governor Northam does not suggest revisions, the Permanent Standard takes effect upon publication in a Richmond newspaper. If Governor Northam does suggest revisions, the Safety and Health Codes Board will consider them, make any necessary revisions, and the Permanent Standard will take effect upon publication.

The Permanent Standard largely tracks the Emergency Temporary Standard with a few changes and clarifications, including outbreaks, sick leave policies, enforcement, case reporting, test and time-based return-to-work requirements, and respirator standards.