The DeWine administration this week clarified that use of face coverings by employees will be mandatory under Ohio’s re-opening plan. This clarification came after incorrect information was posted by the governor’s staff earlier in the week. For manufacturers, this requirement begins May 4. Fortunately, there are exceptions to the mandate. (The OMA engaged the administration to secure additional exceptions to address manufacturers’ concerns.) The exceptions are:

• An employee in a particular position is prohibited by a law or regulation from wearing a mask while on the job.
• Wearing a mask on the job is against documented industry best practices.
• Wearing a mask is a violation of a company’s safety policy.
• Wearing a mask is not advisable for health purposes.
• An employee is alone in an enclosed workspace.
• There is a practical or safety reason a mask cannot be worn by an employee (e.g., extreme heat, wet conditions, need to communicate).

The administration has said that if any of these exceptions apply to a business — or one of its employees — written justification must be provided upon request. In other words, be prepared to show your written justification to local health care officials or law enforcement. 4/30/2020