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OSHA Issues Guidance on Face Coverings, Surgical Masks and Respirators in the Workplace

Jun 11, 2020

OSHA has published a collection of FAQs regarding the use of masks in the workplace.

“As our economy reopens for business, millions of Americans will be wearing masks in their workplace for the first time,” says Loren Sweatt, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health. “OSHA is ready to help workers and employers understand how to properly use masks so they can stay safe and healthy in the workplace.”

The new guidance outlines the differences between cloth face coverings, surgical masks and respirators. It also reminds employers not to use surgical masks or cloth face coverings when respirators are needed. The guidance calls for continued focus on physical distancing measures even when workers are wearing cloth face coverings, and recommends following CDC's guidance on washing face coverings.

For further information and resources about the coronavirus disease, please visit OSHA’s coronavirus webpage.

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