New Jersey Hospital Cited for Failing to Protect Workers Amid Coronavirus Pandemic
The hospital was cited for failing to test tight-fitting face piece respirators on employees required to use them, as well as failing to train employees on proper respirator use.
- By Nikki Johnson-Bolden
- Sep 15, 2020
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus, New Jersey was cited by OSHA on September 11, 2020 for violation of respiratory protection standards during a specialized coronavirus inspection.
The hospital was cited for failing to test tight-fitting face piece respirators on employees required to use them, as well as failing to train employees on proper respirator use. These two violations add up to a penalty of $9,639.
“Employers must take action to protect their employees during the pandemic, including implementing effective respiratory protection programs,” said Lisa Levy, OSHA Hasbrouck Heights Area Office Director. “OSHA standards require healthcare workers to be fit-tested to ensure the respirators they use provide adequate protection.”
Bergen New Bridge Medical Center is required to respond to the citations and penalties within 15 business days from receipt. Proper responses include compliance, requesting an informal conference with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.
Resources for those with questions about OSHA standards during the coronavirus pandemic can be found on the department’s COVID-19 response webpage, or visit osha.gov.
About the Author
Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.