Laguna Beach Issues Order Requiring Face Coverings for Workers

Laguna Beach, CA – Today Laguna Beach City Manager John Pietig issued an Emergency Order requiring all Essential Workers providing non-medical essential services to wear face coverings while at work, adding a new layer of protection for the City of Laguna Beach in the fight against COVID-19.

The City Manager’s emergency order takes effect on Friday, April 10, 2020 at 12:00 a.m., and states all employers of non-medical essential businesses require their workers wear cloth face coverings that shield their noses and mouths while at work. This includes Essential Workers at all grocery stores, pharmacies, home improvement stores, gas station convenience stores, restaurants providing take-out or delivery services, banks, savings and loans, and credit unions. Facecoverings, such as scarves (dense fabric, without holes), bandanas, neck gaiter, or other fabric face coverings are allowed.All persons, including Essential Workers, are discouraged from using medical grade personal protective equipment, such asN95 masks, for non-medical reasons.

Essential businesses must also implement physical distancing measures for employees, customers, and maintain proper sanitation at all times or the facility shall be closed.

This Order follows guidance recently issued by the California Department of Public Health and the Centers for DiseaseControl and Prevention ("CDC") which recommends all persons wear cloth face coverings in public settings where other socialdistancing measures are difficult to maintain. On April 8, 2020, the Orange County Public Health Officer also issued a recommendation strongly encouraging Essential Workers to wear non-medical grade masks or face coverings while at work to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“We are requiring all Essential Workers in Laguna Beach wear a face covering to help slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Laguna Beach City Manager John Pietig. “This is an additional level of protection for both our residents and our Essential Workers still on the frontlines providing food and critical services to our community.”

A full copy of the City Manager’s Emergency Order can be found HERE.