In order to adapt to recent changes in statewide public health guidance concerning mask requirements in public places, UC ANR has updated our Mask Protocol. The latest statewide guidance states that masks are “strongly recommended” by California Department of Public Health (CDPH) for all persons in indoor public settings, but masks are required only in certain high-risk settings as detailed below. In support of that guidance, the Governor issued an Executive Order suspending the Cal/OSHA ETS requirement that unvaccinated persons must wear masks in all workplaces. However, the UC COVID-19 Vaccination Program Policy still requires employees who are not fully vaccinated to wear a mask while working at UC facilities.
Based on the various health guidance and policies in the context of UC ANR employees, volunteers, and program participants in UC ANR locations or program activities, the mask protocol may be summarized as follows:
Who needs to wear a mask indoors?
- Employees who are not vaccinated for COVID-19 (wearing a mask is a condition of vaccination policy exemption)
- Employees who are not vaccinated for flu (required by UC Flu Vaccine Executive Order)
- Anyone who is returning early from a COVID-19 case or exposure (must wear a mask for 10 days from positive test/exposure)
- If required by public health order or facility rule
- All persons, in certain higher-risk settings – public transit, congregate living, and (through March 11) schools/youth activities
Any person may choose to continue wearing a mask in any setting – even if it is not required – to protect themselves or family members from potential exposure to the virus. Please review the UC ANR Mask Protocol for additional details.
Other COVID-19 safety measures remain in effect, including symptom screening (using the daily Clearance to Work survey); reporting COVID cases; isolation and quarantine when necessary; facility assessment and controls; hygiene, cleaning and disinfection; travel; communication; and training. Please review UC ANR's Reopening Guidelines and your location's COVID Prevention Plan for more information.
Brian Oatman
Director, Risk & Safety Services