The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has extended the requirement to wear face masks indoors until at least Feb. 15, 2022, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. Before the extension, the mask requirement was scheduled to end on Jan. 15, 2022.
The details:
The requirement applies to all workplaces, regardless of whether they serve the public, or are open to the public, according to the CDPH. The CDPH recommends surgical masks or higher-level respirators.
Note: Under rules set by the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA), employers must provide face coverings and ensure they are worn by employees when required by orders. The Cal/OSHA rules define what is considered an acceptable mask, but county and city rules may have additional requirements.
Exemptions:
The following individuals are exempt from the state’s mask requirement:
- Those younger than two years old (because of the risk of suffocation).
- Those with a medical condition, mental health condition, or disability that prevents wearing a mask.
- Those who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.
- Those for whom wearing a mask would create a risk to the person related to their work, as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines.
Additionally, exceptions apply in the following circumstances:
- While actively eating or drinking.
- When working alone in a closed office or room.
- When performing at indoor live or recorded settings or events such as music, acting, or singing.
- When obtaining a medical or cosmetic service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face-covering is necessary to perform the services.
- When wearing respiratory protection, per Cal/OSHA requirements.
Next steps:
- Refer to CDPH’s guidance for more information.
- Notify employees of the extension.
- Continue to display notices at all entrances.
- Make sure supervisors are trained on how to enforce the requirement.
- Check county and city rules to determine if they have additional mask requirements.
- Watch for developments to determine if the state’s mask requirement is extended beyond Feb. 15, 2022.