ISO Publishes New Guidelines for Worker Health and Safety The ISO/PAS 45005 guidelines on working safely during the pandemic were developed in only three months instead of the usual three years ISO International Standards take. By Nikki Johnson-BoldenDec 21, 2020 The International Organization for Standardization published a document that contains health and safety guidelines for workers and employers to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic. The general guidance, which was created by experts from 26 countries, is intended to be applied across various industries. Workplaces are given recommendations on topics such as how to safely operate during this time, fix issues that could lead to health hazards and plan for re-opening their businesses after closure due to an outbreak. The document also clarifies popular terms that have surfaced since the beginning of the pandemic in March, such as PPE and what items qualify as such, well-being and common areas. It suggests that workers not be required to work unless protective measures have been implemented in their place of employment. In the case of an employee becoming infected with coronavirus, the ISO details measures that employers and organizations should take to ensure the safety of other workers who may have come into contact with that person. For more information, visit iso.org. About the Author Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety. Let's block ads! (Why?)