Face Coverings are Now Required in New York for Essential Workers

Apr 15, 2020 | Child Care, Health & Safety

Face Coverings are Now Required in New York for Essential Workers

Governor Andrew Cuomo issued an Executive Order stating that face coverings are now required in New York for essential workers. These coverings must be provided free of charge by the employer, for use when interacting with the public. Employers have until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, April 15 to comply with this order, by supplying any essential workers with purchased or homemade face coverings.

Employees are permitted to bring their own face coverings but cannot be required to do so by their employer. Here is the text  of the order:

“For all essential businesses or entities, any employees who are present in the workplace shall be provided and shall wear face coverings when in direct contact with customers or members of the public. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings for their employees. This provision may be enforced by local governments or local law enforcement as if it were an order pursuant to section 12 or 12-b of the Public Health Law. This requirement shall be effective Wednesday, April 15 at 8 p.m.”

For businesses that are having difficulty procuring the face coverings, the governor’s office advises contacting their local county office of emergency management. But even in this situation, the employer is still responsible for supplying manufactured or homemade masks.

NOTE: the term “mask” generally refers to a medical or surgical mask, and/or one with a filtering mechanism. These masks should be reserved for first responders and health care workers. A “face covering” is made from cloth or other material that covers the mouth and nose. The CDC lists five criteria for “cloth face coverings,” which should:

  • fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • be secured with ties or ear loops
  • include multiple layers of fabric
  • allow for breathing without restriction
  • be able to be laundered and machine-dried without damage or change to shape

More guidance is expected soon from Cuomo’s office.

A New England Nanny is complying with the Executive Order by providing face coverings to all our caregivers.

We are available to help you with child care or senior care, and we can run errands for you if you aren’t able to leave your home (or are uncomfortable doing so).

Contact us at (518) 348-0400 and let us know how we can assist you during this challenging time.

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