08/04/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/04/2021 11:01
FSIS announced today that it is implanting additional measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection to its inspection program personnel (IPP).
Effective Monday, August 9, 2021, all federally regulated establishments are expected to wear masks when IPP are present, if located in 'an area of substantial or high community COVID-19 transmission.' The Agency said these changes are based on updated guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The following measures are effective Monday, August 9, 2021:
These measures come as a response to a national increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations due to the highly transmissible Delta variant and align with FSIS Directive 4791.5 Hazard Communication Program.
For FSIS employees working in privately owned establishments, the Agency does not have authority to abate hazardous conditions directly. However, the Agency is required to provide employees with safe and healthy working conditions as part of the overall inspection process. Means used by the Agency to reduce exposure to hazardous work conditions include administrative controls and removing employees (including withdrawing inspection program personnel (IPP)) from unsafe conditions as necessary for protection.
On July 28, 2021, USDA directed all employees to wear a mask in federal buildings, regulated establishments, retail facilities, and government owned or leased vehicles regardless of vaccination status. FSIS said the mask requirement is needed due to the highly dispersed nature of its workforce.