Yesterday, the CDC announced that but for a few exceptions, people fully vaccinated against Covid-19 do not need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors. But do not throw your mask away yet! You still must wear your mask when required by federal, state, and local laws, including the policies within your workplace!
When do you have to wear your mask?
- If you are not vaccinated, you must still wear your mask. (Remember, vaccinations are only effective two weeks after your last dose of the vaccine.)
- If you are immune-compromised, you should wear your mask & consult your doctor;
- When traveling, on buses, trains, planes, and any public transportation;
- If you develop Covid-19 symptoms, even if vaccinated, you must begin to wear your mask again and get tested;
- If you want to wear your mask;
- If your employer has policies in place requiring that you wear a mask.
While proof that the vaccine is working across America and the world, remember, your workplace may have different policies to keep everyone safe from Covid-19. Just because you may be vaccinated doesn’t mean everyone around you is vaccinated. There are medical and religious exemptions that exist and some people simply may not get them. Unless your workplace has a mandatory vaccination policy, this is the honor system, which means it’s possible someone not wearing a mask is actually not vaccinated or fully vaccinated.
If you have not been vaccinated and would like to, vaccines are available. Go to www.vaccines.gov text your zip code to 438829 or call 1-800-232-0233 to find a location near you to get vaccinated.
For more information on whether you should allow your employees to shed their masks, what policies should you or do you need in place to be Cal-OSHA compliant, and the best next steps for your business, please call the Employer Lawyers at Chauvel & Glatt.
This material in this article, provided by Chauvel & Glatt, is designed to provide informative and current information as of the date of the post. It should not be considered, nor is it intended to constitute legal advice. For information on your particular circumstances, please contact Chauvel & Glatt at 650-573-9500.
