California is on Track to Remove Masks in the Workplace

California is on Track to Remove Masks in the Workplace

Fully vaccinated employees are inching towards taking off their masks at work as long as their coworkers follow their lead.

It’s a big step for California: optional masks in the workplace. However, this is as long as a proposal from California’s workplace agency gets final approval. This state is moving towards lifting many COVID-19 restrictions beginning June 15. Cal/OSHA proposes to relax emergency workplace rules that were established late last year.

According to an article, with these changes, employees working indoors could stop wearing masks only if everyone in the workplace proves proof of vaccination against the disease. Social distancing rules would also become relaxed. The author of the article referenced, Rachel Schnalzer, published a detailed breakdown with two of her colleagues of what you need to know about the proposal.

Will this happen?

The proposal got one crucial approval. However, it is still subject to review by the state office of Administrative Law. The office is expected to approve it.

Who doesn’t have to wear a mask while working indoors?

Masks will still be required everyone is not fully vaccinated. The article says, people are fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or the single shot of Johnson & Johnson. Employees will need to show proof they got vaccinated to their employers.

However, employees of retail stores, restaurants and other places where workers interact will still need to wear their masks. This rule change also wouldn’t affect hospital workers.

What else does the Cal/OSHA proposal cover?

The agency also suggests ending social distancing requirements—kicking in July 31.

Until then, employees working inside or work at outdoor events of 10,000 people or more, will either need to continue distancing or be offered respirators such as N-95 masks by their employers.

Do vaccinated workers need to continue to be tested for COVID-19?

Since the state’s guidance just changed, if you are a non-healthcare worker and have been fully vaccinated, you do not need to be screened for COVID-19.

Can businesses maintain their own rules?

Businesses and employers can choose their own requirements about wearing masks after the state no longer mandates it.

Were some changes recently extended?

California Governor Gavin Newsom and health officials are following California’s COVID-19 state of emergency order. This gives them the authority to temporarily impose new rules and restrictions that will remain in place beyond June 15. California is extending the ability of restaurants and bars to serve alcoholic drinks in outdoor dining areas as well as for delivery and to-go orders through the rest of the year.

Read the full story about what re-opened Los Angeles will look like here.

Download Center

  • Hand Safety Program

    Hand injuries are the #1 preventable industrial accident worldwide. In REThink Hand Safety, the most comprehensive book on hand safety, you'll learn how top companies have reduced hand injuries by up to 90% and what the most successful hand safety programs have in common. Get your free copy today.

  • Free 1-on-1 Consultations

    Get a free meeting with a Superior Glove hand safety expert and learn how to have less hand injuries, lower PPE costs, and increase worker productivity. 1-on-1 consultations provide you with personalized advice and recommendations for your specific needs and concerns.

  • Glove 101 Guide

    In this comprehensive guide, we've compiled all the key information you need to know about safety gloves to help you make informed decisions when choosing gloves for your workers. Whether you're new to the world of safety gloves or an experienced pro, this guide has something for everyone.

  • Sample Program

    Find the right safety gloves for your team and try before you buy—in just 3 easy steps! Simply add the products to your sample box, complete the request form, and wait for your samples to arrive at no cost to you.

  • Cut Protection Product Guide

    Find the right safety gloves for your workers to protect them from cut hazards. This guide offers a wide selection of gloves, including ultra-thin gloves with the industry’s maximum cut resistance for unbeatable dexterity and touch sensitivity.

  • Superior Glove

OH&S Digital Edition

  • OHS Magazine Digital Edition - February March 2023

    February March 2023

    Featuring:

    • IH: GAS DETECTION
      Does Real-Time Data Enhance Gas Detection Programs?
    • PPE: HEARING PROTECTION
      Hearing Protection: The Dangers of Non-Compliance
    • PPE: PROTECTIVE APPAREL
      Personal Protective Equipment: The Pains of Staying Pain-Free
    • CONSTRUCTION SAFETY
      Reframing Eyewear: Meeting Workforce Needs with Technology and Advancements
    View This Issue