COVID-19 Workplace Testing Study: Phase II Analysis

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.

Keywords: COVID-19 testing; barriers to testing; corona virus; employer testing; pandemic impact.