Public health officials are
concerned the H1N1 (swine) influenza virus has begun its fall return
and will likely cause widespread illness. To help employers prepare for
the potential impact this virus could have on their workplaces, the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration is presenting a forum,
"Workplace Preparedness: How Small Businesses Can Prepare for H1N1
Influenza," Sept. 30, 2009.
Expert panelists will discuss the differences between seasonal and
pandemic influenza and explore work practices that employers can adopt
to prevent the spread of the virus. Panelists will also examine
strategies for assessing workplace exposure, communicating risks to
workers and planning for a more severe influenza pandemic.
Additionally, participants will receive guidance on continuing
operations if a business experiences staff absenteeism.
"The H1N1 virus could have a major impact on the nation during the flu
season," said acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Jordan
Barab. "Planning is critical, and this forum underscores the importance
of employers taking the necessary steps to protect workers from this
threat."
The forum will be held from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. in the Department of
Labor's Frances Perkins Building auditorium. Panelists include
representatives from OSHA, local health departments and industry. Those
interested in attending can contact Russell Jones at
[email protected] or 202-693-2532, or Charlene Crawford at
[email protected] or 202-693-2165.
See also,
http://www.osha.gov/dsg/topics/pandemicflu/index.html