New Jersey Hospital Cited For Failing to Protect Workers from the Coronavirus

Paramus, NJ (WorkersCompensation.com) - The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited CarePlus Bergen Inc., doing business as Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, for violating respiratory protection standards at its Paramus, New Jersey, location. OSHA cited the hospital for two serious violations, with proposed penalties of $9,639.

Based on a coronavirus-related inspection, OSHA cited the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center for failing to fit test tight-fitting face piece respirators on employees who were required to use them. The hospital also failed to train employees on proper respirator use and ensure employees understood when to wear a respirator.

“Employers must take action to protect their employees during the pandemic, including implementing effective respiratory protection programs,” said OSHA Hasbrouck Heights Area Office Director Lisa Levy. “OSHA standards require healthcare workers to be fit-tested to ensure the respirators they use provide adequate protection.”

Employers with questions on compliance with OSHA standards should contact their local OSHA office for guidance and assistance at 800-321-OSHA (6742). OSHA’s COVID-19 response webpage offers extensive resources for addressing safety and health hazards during the evolving coronavirus pandemic.

The company has 15 business days from receipt of the citations and penalties to comply, request an informal conference with OSHA’s area director or contest the findings before the independent Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission.

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