Governor Lifts California Workplace Mask Requirement

Starting today, masks will no longer be required for most unvaccinated workers indoors.

Following the California Department of Public Health’s release of new indoor masking guidance that lifted mask rules for unvaccinated people, Governor Gavin Newsom yesterday signed an executive order that updates the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) in keeping with the current guidance. 

While workplace face covering requirements have been lifted for most work, masks are still strongly recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings. In addition, employers must still provide a face covering upon the request of an employee and masking will still be required when outbreaks occur.

The Governor’s order also extends the current Emergency Temporary Standard through May 5, 2022 to ensure the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board has time to review the new guidance in anticipation of the next readoption of the ETS.  

The text of the Governor’s executive order can be found here.