10. Official Strategies / Guidelines // Rules / Regulations
Return to September 2020 update
Length:2 min read; 414 words
Note: The following paragraphs summarize the category of Official Strategies / Guidelines // Rules / Regulations observed in September. More information about the specific category from September (and previous months) can be found in the downloaded report(s). The number in square brackets (e.g., [X]) refers to a reference where the reader can find more information about a specific statement. The references can be found in the References list below, Systematized References page or in the downloaded report.
The discussion about this category decreased 54% in September (from 10.3% in August to 4.7%). Previously mentioned the first-ever published WELL certification for buildings to address a post COVID-19 environment [176] is showing successful application in public [177]. In previous reports we highlighted RESET® [178] certification and indexes for airborne viral transmission, and Fitwel’s new viral response module [179], that provides annual, third-party certification of policies and practices informed by the latest public health research on mitigating the spread of contagious diseases, including their Research to Action [180]. Since June we were highlighting that new building operation standards are required as the current guidelines are confusing and/or contradicting, excluding or complementary; and above all not sustainable. [122] In September the AEC community continues to urge action on healthier policy priorities in a more organized way: 1) built environment experts petition to the WHO urging enhanced guidance on the role of buildings (indoor spaces) in addressing COVID-19; 2) USGBC creates new LEED Safety First Pilot Credits + Healthy Economy Commitment; and 3) AIA launches Policy Platform 2020 (embodying the idea of “Building a Healthy America,” the platform focuses on three key areas: economy, climate Action, and healthy and equitable communities.) [181] New York's Open Restaurants Program for outside dining to be made permanent. [182]
Department of Transportation plans funding boost, regulatory rollbacks in national freight strategy. [183] Some governmental responses are diminishing environmental regulations in an effort to boost economy; e.g., more than 60 projects expedited by Trump executive order are waiving environmental regulations. [106] It seems that a COVID standard at the U.S. federal level is still not forthcoming, as the development of such a standard would be like "trying to hit a moving target" since the advice coming from health agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is still evolving. In June, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit rejected a bid by the AFL-CIO to force OSHA to create an emergency novel coronavirus safety standard in response to the pandemic. At the state level, Virginia has an emergency COVID-19 standard, and Oregon has issued temporary standards. Some states like Michigan started fining construction-related businesses for COVID-19 violations. Overall employers should follow CDC guidelines as OSHA has 6 months from the first exposure to a hazard to issue a citation. [166] Due to environmental catastrophes, new regulations are required; e.g., contractors could be liable for wildfire smoke impacts on workers' health, although neither EPA nor OSHA has mandates on when outdoor work should cease due to hazardous air quality. [33]
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