California Eases COVID-19 Rules for Employers

5 Key Changes You Need to Know

California's workplace COVID-19 prevention rules have seen significant changes with the recent updates from Cal/OSHA. In response to evolving public health guidance, employers now face relaxed isolation and testing requirements.

Here are 5 crucial points for employers with employees in California should be aware of to stay compliant.

1. Redefined "Infectious Period"

For COVID-19 cases with symptoms, it now starts at the onset of symptoms. Those with mild or improving symptoms can return to work after 24 hours without fever. Non-symptomatic cases have no defined infectious period unless symptoms develop.

2. Reduced Isolation for Asymptomatic Cases

COVID-19 cases without symptoms no longer need to isolate for 5 days. Instead, they should wear a mask for 10 days and avoid contact with high-risk individuals.
Symptomatic cases need to be excluded for 24 hours and can return if symptoms are mild and improving.

3. New Testing Rules for Close Contacts

Testing is now advised only for those with new COVID-19 symptoms, at higher risk, or with contact with high-risk individuals.
Employers must provide free testing during paid time for employees with close contact, except for asymptomatic individuals recently recovered.

4. Testing Requirements During Outbreaks

Testing requirements have eased, but during outbreaks, employers must still test all close contacts and everyone in the exposed group during a major outbreak. Symptomatic employees refusing testing must be excluded for at least 24 hours during an outbreak.

5. Ongoing Employer Obligations:

Draft updated prevention policies
Provide timely notice to employees and contractors with close contact
Exclude COVID-19 cases during the infectious period, following the new definition
Supply face coverings and ensure compliance with CDPH guidelines

As COVID-19 regulations continue to evolve, staying informed is crucial for California employers. At HR Advisors, we are committed to keeping you informed about changes that may impact your business. If you have any questions or need assistance in implementing these changes, feel free to reach out to our team.

California Eases COVID-19 Rules for Employers

5 Key Changes You Need to Know

For COVID-19 cases with symptoms, it now starts at the onset of symptoms. Those with mild or improving symptoms can return to work after 24 hours without fever. Non-symptomatic cases have no defined infectious period unless symptoms develop.

COVID-19 cases without symptoms no longer need to isolate for 5 days. Instead, they should wear a mask for 10 days and avoid contact with high-risk individuals.

Symptomatic cases need to be excluded for 24 hours and can return if symptoms are mild and improving.

Testing is now advised only for those with new COVID-19 symptoms, at higher risk, or with contact with high-risk individuals.

Employers must provide free testing during paid time for employees with close contact, except for asymptomatic individuals recently recovered.

Testing requirements have eased, but during outbreaks, employers must still test all close contacts and everyone in the exposed group during a major outbreak. Symptomatic employees refusing testing must be excluded for at least 24 hours during an outbreak.

Draft updated prevention policies

Provide timely notice to employees and contractors with close contact

Exclude COVID-19 cases during the infectious period, following the new definition

Supply face coverings and ensure compliance with CDPH guidelines

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