The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has updated its definition of an “outbreak.”

As previously discussed in our January 25, 2023 blog post, the Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards (ETS) were replaced with the COVID-19 Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations, which rely on the CDPH definition of “outbreak.” The Non-Emergency Regulations, in effect until February 3, 2025, require employers to ensure employees are protected in the workplace from COVID-19, including during an outbreak.

New Definition:

“Outbreak” was previously defined as three or more employee COVID-19 cases in an exposed group within a 14-day period. As of June 23, 2023, the CDPH has adopted the following definition: at least three COVID-19 cases within an exposed group during a seven-day period.

Why This Matters:

The revised definition affects rules around face coverings, testing, exclusion of employees, etc. Employers should check that their COVID-19 policies and practices as well as COVID-19 Prevention Program are current.

For more information on the Non-Emergency Regulations, please click here.