OSHA weighs in on use of face coverings, including non-PPE, in the workplace

On June 10, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a series of questions and answers about the use of face coverings in the workplace. The guidance, which also clarifies the difference between the various types of face coverings and offers recommendations about their applicability in the workplace, can be found here.

Cloth face coverings

OSHA noted cloth face coverings are worn in public over the nose and mouth to contain the wearer's potentially infectious respiratory droplets produced when the person coughs, sneezes, or talks and to limit the spread of COVID-19 to others. It clarified the face coverings aren’t considered personal protective equipment (PPE) and won’t protect the wearer against airborne transmissible infectious agents because of their loose fit and lack of seal or adequate filtration.

OSHA further stated the cloth face coverings “may be used by almost any worker, although those who have trouble breathing or are otherwise unable to put on or remove a mask without assistance should not wear one.” Because the coverings aren’t PPE, employers aren’t required to provide them to employees. If they're using cloth face masks, the agency underscored the importance of properly and regularly cleaning them.

Surgical masks