This resource center includes links to the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), OSHA, and other agencies to help employers assess their risk and take preparatory measures if necessary.

Healthcare workers are more likely to be exposed to infectious diseases than workers in other industries, and proper personal protective equipment (PPE) procedures are essential to keeping these employees safe. Other workers at higher risk for exposure include airline and travel workers; mortuary and death care workers; laboratory workers; border, customs, and quarantine personnel; and emergency responders.

Note: Due to COVID-19, the CDC currently recommends avoiding all nonessential travel, allowing or expanding remote work if possible, enhancing cleaning and disinfection procedures, and emphasizing hygiene practices among employees who remain on the job.

Occupational exposure to certain infectious diseases is covered under OSHA’s bloodborne pathogens standard at 29 CFR 1910.1030. Other relevant standards include those for respiratory protection (29 CFR 1910.134), first aid (29 CFR 1910.151), and PPE (29 CFR 1910.132).