FSIS implements measures to protect inspection personnel from COVID-19 infection

On August 4, 2021, FSIS released a notice and emailed FSIS inspected establishments of additional measures to reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection for FSIS inspection program personnel (IPP) at establishments. 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:

Federally regulated establishments are expected to follow the latest CDC guidance. Establishment employees and contractors are expected to wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, when IPP are present, if located in an area of “substantial” or “high” community COVID-19 transmission. Managers and employees are to use the CDC COVID Data Tracker website, which is updated daily, to determine whether they are located in one of these areas.
Establishments are expected to follow the CDC guidance by Monday, August 9, 2021. If the establishment does not meet these expectations, FSIS may take additional measures to reduce COVID-19 exposure to FSIS personnel.

On July 28, 2021, USDA directed its employees to wear a mask in federal buildings, regulated establishments, retail facilities, and government owned or leased vehicles regardless of vaccination status. The additional 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.

Source: FSIS

You must login or register in order to post a comment.

On-Demand Join us for an exclusive look into the future of the protein industry with The National Provisioner’s 2024 State of the Industry webinar, a key feature of our October eMagazine. Dive deep into transformative insights as consumer research experts from Circana take the stage.

IPPE 2025

The International Production & Processing Expo is the world's largest annual poultry and egg, meat, and animal food industry event of its kind. A wide range of domestic and international decision-makers attend this annual event to find solutions for their business, network with industry colleagues, and learn about the latest technological developments and issues facing the industry.

The 2025 IPPE already has 1,200+ exhibitors that will occupy more than 583,000+ square feet of exhibit space. The 2025 IPPE will offer timely and important information and an efficient way for producers and processors to find solutions to enhance their operations.

We look forward to being with you again at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Mark your calendar to join us Jan. 28 - 30, 2025. You will not want to miss this "must-attend" event for our industries!