City of Los Angeles to Require Use of Face Coverings at Non-Medical Essential Services Starting April 10th

Mayor Eric Garcetti on Tuesday, April 7th issued an emergency order that will require many workers providing non-medical essential services to wear face coverings while at work.

The order takes effect April 10 and also requires customers at grocery stores and many other essential businesses to wear face coverings.

Under the Mayor’s emergency order, employers of many non-medical essential businesses must either provide workers with cloth face coverings that shield their noses and mouths or reimburse employees for their cost. Essential businesses must also implement physical distancing measures for employees, customers, and visitors; make sure employees have access to a clean and sanitary restroom, stocked with all necessary cleansing products like soap and sanitizer; and allow employees to wash their hands at least every 30 minutes. Non-medical essential businesses described in the order will be allowed to refuse service to customers who do not wear face coverings. The order also recommends that, whenever possible, businesses install plexiglass barriers between cashiers and customers.

Los Angeles residents should limit trips outside their residences to only the most necessary and vital tasks — and this week, should postpone trips to the grocery store and other important errands as much as possible. Mayor Garcetti’s “Safer at Home” emergency order requires City of Los Angeles residents to remain in their homes except for the most essential activities — including critical tasks such as securing food and health, safety and medical necessities, as well as caring for children, elder adults, family, friends and people with disabilities.

The order is at www.lamayor.org/sites/g/files/wph446/f/page/file/WorkerProtection.pdf.