COVID-19 Workplace Testing Study: Phase II Analysis.

BACKGROUND

US businesses were considerably impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Return to work after exposure or illness was challenging.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess employers' experiences and perspectives during the pandemic with SARS-CoV-2 testing in their workforce.

METHODS

An anonymous survey was delivered to employers across nine NORA sectors. Data were analyzed using SAS Version 9.4.

RESULTS

Thirty percent of the respondents worked in a small-sized company (<100 employees), 28% were 100-500 employees, and 42% were more than 500. Small, medium, and large companies were differentially affected, with larger companies affected the most. Sixty-eight percent reported utilizing testing in their return-to-work strategy. Delay in getting results was the most common reported barrier to testing during the early phase of the pandemic (60%).

CONCLUSION

This study will help prepare employers in return-to-work testing decisions in future pandemics.