On June 28, the CDC launched several new pages, under the main page titled “Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19.”

Under “About Cloth Face Coverings,” the CDC explains why it is important to wear cloth face coverings and links the reader to other pages, including to recent scientific studies supporting its conclusions. There are several pages which educate readers on things such as making a cloth face mask or washing and drying a cloth face mask. There is also a page devoted to “How to Wear Cloth Face Coverings” which is practical and easy to understand.

Oklahoma does not, as of this writing, require people to wear face masks. However, many businesses require their employees and/or patrons to do so. These businesses do so for a variety of reasons. If you are already requiring face masks, this update simply adds to your resources. If you are not currently requiring face masks, review this information so you can make an informed decision as to what is best for your business and the people who rely upon your business. (You will also be better prepared should the state or any local authority in which you operate impose such a requirement.)

Employers trying to decide what is best are balancing issues such as slowing the transmission of the virus, protecting employees and invitees, possible or perceived objections by employees or invitees, concerns about having to shut down the business if/when someone reports a positive COVID-19 test result, etc. Addressing some of those issues, there is a page entitled “Considerations for Wearing Cloth Face Coverings.” This page discusses the evidence of a mask’s effectiveness in slowing the spread as well as who should and who should not wear one and when.

For employers requiring or encouraging the wearing of face masks, the CDC has introduced a poster which you may want to display titled “Important Information about Your Cloth Face Coverings.” This poster discusses some general CDC recommendations about slowing the spread (for example, staying home, social distancing, and washing your hands). The majority of the poster focuses on why the CDC recommends masks and how people should wear them.

Be well.

By Kristen L. Brightmire, kbrightmire@dsda.com