According to the CDC, face coverings are effective at reducing the spread of coronavirus by capturing potentially infected droplets from persons who may have the virus but are not showing symptoms. The purpose of the face covering is to protect your coworkers.
Effective May 22, 2020, the wearing of face coverings is mandatory in the following locations or situations while at Ames Laboratory:
- Any public or communal space (hallways and stairwells, restrooms, vending or receiving areas)
- Shared offices when another person is present
- Open office spaces, including cubicles, break areas, and copy/supply areas
- When conducting a task where physical distance of six feet cannot be maintained
Face coverings will not be required in the following locations or situations:
- Individual offices with four enclosed walls. However, visitors and the office occupant must wear face coverings if physical distance cannot be maintained.
- Conference rooms where physical distancing may be maintained during the meeting. However, face covering use is required when moving to, from, and around the conference room.
- A physical or mental condition that is exacerbated by wearing a face covering. Discuss options with your supervisor, and Occupational Medicine if needed.
Face coverings will be provided to employees by the Laboratory, or you may wear a homemade or non-Laboratory-provided covering as long as it meets CDC guidelines. Face coverings are available at Stores, ESH, or may be delivered to Laboratory offices if requested. Please contact ESH at 4-2153 or safety@ameslab.gov for questions or to request delivery.
Face coverings are one of many tools to prevent virus spread. Other tactics include frequent hand washing, proper sanitation, maintaining physical distancing of at least six feet, and self-monitoring your health daily before coming on site. By following these practices, we hope to keep everyone safe, healthy, and productive.