On April 21, 2022, Cal/OSHA may adopt a third version of its COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS). (I know. California has lifted most COVID-19 requirements. But…) The current version of the ETS expires on May 6, 2022. The third adoption apparently will include the following changes:

• Elimination of the “light test” for masks
• Removal of various cleaning and disinfection requirements
• The creation of a new category, “returned case,” referring to employees who return to work after testing positive for COVID-19 that do not develop symptoms after their return (employers are not required to make COVID-19 testing available to these individuals)
• A statement that the CDPH’s guidance applies instead of the ETS with respect to exclusion and return-to-work

This third adoption cannot be extended beyond December 31, 2022, and will be the last ETS in effect.

I will let you know what happens at the meeting.