March 1, 2022

California Adopts New Indoor Mask Policies Amid Decline in COVID Case Rates

California announced that starting March 1, masks will no longer be required for unvaccinated individuals, but will be strongly recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings. This guidance also applies to unvaccinated workers indoors; employers must still provide a face covering upon request of an employee.

However, masks will still be required for everyone in high-transmission settings. Please note that local jurisdictions may have additional requirements beyond the state guidance.

The change in mask mandates were triggered by the declining case rates and hospitalizations across the California.

Today, Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order updating the Cal/OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard to conform to the updated CDPH guidance. The order also extends the current ETS through May 5, 2022. California employers that elect to eliminate indoor masking requirements should update their COVID-19 Prevention Programs accordingly.

RESOURCES:

  • Press Release: Governors Newsom, Brown and Inslee Announce Updated Health Guidance. Click here to access.
  •  Press Release: Following New Health Guidance, Governor Newsom Signs Order to Update Workplace Safety Rules. Click here to access.
  • Executive Order N-5-22 updating the Cal/OSHA ETS. Click here to access.