NEW MEXICO ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT NEWS

Members of the public can now easily view workplaces investigated on COVID-19 related matters by the Occupational Health and Safety Bureau (OHSB) of the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED).

The GIS map includes information about the business and complaints received by NMED, as well as the response received from the business during the investigation. Investigations do not necessarily result in citations or indicate wrongdoing by a business.

New Mexico law states that every employer must provide a place of employment that is free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or physical harm to their employees, including COVID-19.

As of May 7, 2020, OSHA has investigated 123 workplace complaints related to COVID-19. From March 6 to May 8, OHSB received over 200 workplace complaints – twice the number normally received in a two-month period. COVID-19 related complaints include lack of access to proper personal protective equipment and alleged violations of the state’s emergency public health orders.

“Our eight OSHA inspectors are working around the clock to keep up with a staggering amount of COVID-19 related complaints and tips coming in,” said NMED Cabinet Secretary James Kenney. “Employers must take the necessary steps to keep workers safe.”

Resources for employers and employees are available on NMED’s COVID-19 page in English and Spanish. To file a workplace complaint, email complaints.OSHA@state.nm.us or call 505-476-8700.