Oregon OSHA delays enforcement of temporary rule on farm operations

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Oregon OSHA said Friday it will delay until June 1 enforcement of a temporary rule to increase protections against the spread of coronavirus in employer-provided housing and in labor-intensive farm operations.

The agency said the decision is in response to requests from employers for more time to comply with the rule’s requirements. Those requirements – most of which were originally slated to take effect May 11 – strengthen requirements in three areas: field sanitation, labor housing, and transportation.

Meanwhile, the delay will also allow more time for Oregon OSHA to fully complete educational efforts to help employers understand and meet the rule’s requirements.

The rule, which will remain in effect until no later than Oct. 24, encompasses multiple provisions.

In field sanitation, for example, it requires employers to appoint one or more social distancing officers to ensure at least six feet of separation during work activities, breaks, and meal periods. The same applies for housing operations to ensure at least six feet of distance between unrelated people.

In transportation, for example, the rule requires at least three feet of social distancing during travel in employer-provided vehicles, as well as facial coverings worn by passengers and by the driver in employer-provided vehicles.

For more information about the rule, visit Oregon OSHA web page about COVID-19: https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/re/covid-19.aspx