COVID-19 Workplace Testing Study

Abstract

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.