Keeping Workers Safe from COVID-19

November 28, 2022

COVID-19 doesn’t end with the lifting of Washington emergency orders. Here’s what agencies are doing to keep state workers safe. 

By Birgit Miller, ICSEW Communications Subcommittee 

The last remaining emergency proclamations and state of emergency issued by Gov. Jay Inslee in response to the COVID-19 pandemic expired Oct. 31. However, COVID-19 remains a recognized hazard in our lives, including in the workplace.  

The Washington State Department of Health is working with Washington employers, including state agencies to assess their workplace for COVID-19 hazards and maintain certain standards to keep their employees safe.   

Employers and employees can find the most current information on recommended safety guidelines on websites maintained by the Departments of Health as well as Labor and Industries. Click the links below to find out more: 

What you can do 

Everyone can help curb the spread of COVID, flu and other illnesses by continuing the habits we have developed over the last (almost) three years: 

  • Wear a well-fitted mask or respirator, even if not required, especially when using public transportation or indoors in public settings, especially if COVID-19 levels are medium or high in your community.  
  • Frequently wash and/or sanitize hands and any high-touch surfaces. 
  • Use good ventilation indoors, such as briefly opening windows. 
  • Stay home when you are sick. 
  • Vaccinations. Health experts recommend everyone six months and older be vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19 to lower risk of transmission and serious illness, If you've already been vaccinated for COVID-19, consider getting your booster. Find a vaccine location with Washington's vaccine locator.

Testing 

Health experts say COVID-19 testing is one of the best ways to help curb the spread of COVID-19. Depending on your zip code, you may be eligible to order free, rapid, at-home COVID-19 tests by visiting the Say Yes! COVID test website.  

  

 

 

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