June 18, 2020
University of Washington issues COVID-19 face covering policy
The University of Washington has issued a face covering policy for all university personnel, students, staff, contractors and visitors who are on campus amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As a reminder, only employees designated as critical can be working in-person and only at the direction of their supervisor.
The policy is in accordance with federal and state workplace safety requirements and Public Health – Seattle & King County’s face covering directive. While keeping a physical distance of at least 6 feet from other people, practicing good hygiene such as handwashing and staying home when ill are the best known protections against COVID-19, wearing a face covering over the nose and mouth can help protect others.
To help ensure the health and safety of the campus community and the public, face coverings are required to be worn onsite at all three UW campuses when:
- Indoors when other people are present; this includes common areas, such as hallways, stairways, restrooms and elevators
- Outdoors when keeping a 6-foot distance from others may not be possible
Additionally, UW Medicine employees and visitors to UW medical centers are required to wear face coverings and personal protective equipment (PPE) in accordance with UW Medicine policy.
