Employers more likely to encourage than require COVID-19 vaccine as OSHA emergency standard looms. Many employers will consider mandating a COVID-19 vaccine for segments of their workforces, but most will opt to encourage employees to get vaccinated through communications campaigns or carefully structured incentives. Employers should be prepared for an OSHA emergency standard on COVID-19 shortly after the inauguration. In addition, some companies may find segments of their workforce pressing for a vaccine mandate.
With two vaccines in distribution and more expected to be approved in the coming months, there is a renewed sense of optimism about the end of the pandemic. However, there are still hurdles for state and local governments regarding vaccine distribution and administration before employees outside of the health care industry will be eligible to be vaccinated.
OSHA is not expected to require employers in most industries to vaccinate their employees, but some employees may demand their employers do so in order to protect them under OSHA’s general duty clause. Employer vaccination strategies should not only set apolitical tones by using health professionals in their communications, but they should also clearly outline the decision-making process at the leadership level so employees understand of the employer’s strategy.
HR Policy Association held a webinar in December discussing the medical, legal, and practical issues regarding vaccines, and will hold another one in January to discuss employer strategies, featuring members in the health care industry.