TLDR the OSHA diktats. Which type of PPE? If it’s just a face jock-strap, it’s a pain, but worth a paycheck. If it’s an N-95, it’s curtains.
No, the fines go to the employer, and employees are encouraged to (anonymously even) rat out any non-compliance.
Hospitals are businesses. Rather than risk crippling fines due to employee’s non-compliance with PPE regulations, it’s just simpler to mandate the vax for employees.
That’s the trick. using the existing OSHA apparatus to coerce the private sector to effect their preferred policies.
Makes it insidiously difficult to fight back.