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. 2021 Aug 1;63(8):646-656.
doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000002269.

Proposed Framework for Considering SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Testing of Unexposed Asymptomatic Workers in Selected Workplaces

Paul A Schulte  1 , John D Piacentino, David N Weissman, Marie A de Perio, Sophia K Chiu, Lewis J Radonovich, Douglas Trout, Don Beezhold, Frank J Hearl, John Howard
Affiliations

Proposed Framework for Considering SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Testing of Unexposed Asymptomatic Workers in Selected Workplaces

Paul A Schulte et al. J Occup Environ Med. .

Abstract

Objectives: To propose a framework for considering SARS-CoV-2 antigen testing of unexposed asymptomatic workers in selected workplaces.

Methods: This is a commentary based on established occupational safety and health principles, published articles, and other pertinent literature, including non-peer-reviewed preprints in medrixiv.org prior to April 16, 2021.

Results: Not applicable to this commentary/viewpoint article.

Conclusion: Antigen testing is a rapidly evolving and useful public health tool that can be used to guide measures to reduce spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the community and in selected workplaces. This commentary provides a proposed framework for occupational safety and health practitioners and employers for considering antigen testing as a method to screen asymptomatic workers in selected non-healthcare settings. When applied selectively, antigen testing can be a useful, effective part of a comprehensive workplace program for COVID-19 prevention and control.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Proposed framework for consideration of antigen testing of asymptomatic or unexposed workers on a periodic basis.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Workplace events for testing workers for SARS-CoV-2.
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 3
Process for daily at-home antigen testing of employees of a business establishment.
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 4
Hypothetical illustration of daily antigen testing reducing false negative results.,
See this image and copyright information in PMC

Comment in

References

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    1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Testing Strategy for Coronavirus (COVID-19) in High-density Critical Infrastructure Workplaces After a COVID-19 Case is Identified. December 3, 2020. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/worker-safety-suppor.... Accessed December 3, 2020.
    1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Interim Guidance for SARS-CoV-2 Testing in Non-healthcare Workplaces. March 17, 2021. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/testin.... Accessed April 12, 2021.
    1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Testing, Screening, and Outbreak Response for Institutions of Higher Education (IHEs). December 16, 2020. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/colleges-universitie.... Accessed December 16, 2020.