I Want to Have a Safer and Healthier Workplace What supplies do I need to provide to prevent the spread of the virus?

For face coverings, employers must:

  • Provide and ensure the use of face coverings by employees when face coverings are required by the California Department of Public Health or the local health department.
  • Provide face coverings to any employee who tested positive for COVID-19 and ensure use for 10 days after their first positive test (if no symptoms) or their first day of symptoms (if already recovered and are returning to work), whichever is applicable.
  • Provide face coverings to employees, upon their request, at no cost, even when they are not required.
  • Provide employees with a respirator, upon their request, at no cost, for voluntary use.
  • Follow the CDPH requirement that businesses and venue operators, including K-12 school and childcare settings, allow any individual to wear a face covering if they prefer.
  • It is illegal for employers to retaliate against any worker for using face coverings.

Employers are required to evaluate the need for personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent exposure to COVID-19. What PPE you must provide will depend on your employees' risk of exposure.

Your written plan on preventing workplace safety and health hazards must include training on any personal protective equipment.

Examples of PPE include:

  • Gloves
  • Goggles
  • Face shields

All types of PPE must be:

  • Selected based upon the hazard to the worker.
  • Properly worn when required.
  • Regularly inspected, maintained and replaced, as necessary.
  • Properly removed, cleaned, and stored or disposed of to avoid contamination of self, others, or the environment.

February 2024