Introduction There is a limited understanding of what is known about the implications of recent occupational health and safety (OHS) protection measures on small business management and employees during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The study examines the different COVID-19 measures that have been used by small businesses in Miramichi, New Brunswick.

Objectives The study identifies the most common OHS protection measures in use within small businesses during COVID-19 and explores whether differences exist in perspectives of employees and managers of small businesses on the most effective OHS protection measures used.

Methods Recruitment was collected through convenience sampling between February 6th, 2021 and March 9th, 2021. Participants for the online survey included business management personnel and employees from Miramichi, NB. The cross-sectional study used a web-based survey containing 25 items concerning demographics (n=7), experiences working during COVID-19 (n=7), and information and experiences with characteristics of personal protective equipment (PPE) used (n=11).

Results Results showed moderate ratings of positive endorsement (60%) from both employers and employees on the use of COVID-19 OHS protection measures. No significant differences were found between employer and employee perceptions on the effectiveness of employed protection measures. The most frequently used protection measures utilized in these small businesses constitute the three lowest levels of control represented on the NIOSH Hierarchy of Controls: engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.

Conclusion This study provides new knowledge through the collection of stakeholder perspectives about how current workplace strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in small businesses and may help guide future recommendations for small businesses dealing with other OHS and public health crises.