There has been much in the news about the coronavirus (COVID-19). NALP is closely monitoring how this developing situation might impact landscape and lawn care companies.
Though the current CDC risk assessment is that “for most people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to be low," we know that the industry takes the safety of its employees and clients seriously, so we wanted to share the following guidance with all NALP members:
- Companies should monitor and comply with all Federal, State, and Local advisories and precautionary measures.
- The CDC advises that companies monitor employee health and actively encourage sick employees to stay home and notify their supervisors if they have had close contact with someone who has contracted COVID-19.
- COVID-19 is a recordable illness. OSHA record-keeping requirements 29 CFR Part 1904 mandate that covered employers record certain work-related injuries and illnesses on their OSHA 300 log. Note that while 29 CFR 1904.5(b)(2)(viii) exempts recording of the common cold and flu, COVID-19 is a recordable illness when a worker is infected on the job.
- Be extra vigilant about disinfecting Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) equipment. Many industry jobs require the use of PPE. Ensure that the equipment is properly disinfected
For more information from the CDC about business planning and preparedness, or for links to CDC and OSHA resources (some are provided in English and Spanish), visit the coronavirus page on the NALP website. The webpage will be updated as new information and resources become available.
National Association of Landscape Professionals
12500 Fair Lakes Circle Ste 200, Fairfax, Virginia 22033
800.395.2522
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