The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has published a series 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,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Loren Sweatt. “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 and reminds employers not to use surgical masks or cloth face coverings when respirators are needed. The guidance also notes the need for social distancing measures—even when workers are wearing cloth face coverings—and recommends following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance regarding washing face coverings.
OSHA has published numerous guidance documents for workers and employers, including five guidance documents aimed at expanding the availability of respirators. For more information and resources, visit OSHA’s COVID-19 webpage.
View additional COVID-19 resources for the roofing industry on NRCA’s COVID-19 Resources for Roofing Contractors page.
