Updated Face Mask Requirements

July 18, 2021

Good morning –

We are writing today to provide you with an update on new restrictions aimed at reducing the spread of COVID-19. 

Due to the increase in cases in L.A. County, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LADPH) is re-implementing a mandate requiring residents to wear face masks while indoors, regardless of their vaccination status, effective as of 11:59 p.m. Saturday, July 17, 2021. This applies to all employees, students, and visitors at College of the Canyons and will remain in effect until further notice.

The LADPH Public Health Order contains limited exceptions to when masks are required indoors, which include: (1) children under age 2; (2) people who cannot safely wear a mask, such as someone who is unconscious, incapacitated, or who is unable to remove a mask without help; (3) workers in situations where a mask would create a risk to workplace health, safety, or job duty as determined by a workplace risk assessment; and (4) anyone instructed not to wear a mask by their medical provider, provided that, if their job involves regular contact with others, such person must wear a non-restrictive alternative, such as a face shield with a drape that is form fitting under the chin as long as their medical condition permits it.  Any person who requires an exception to the face mask requirement should first discuss the request with the District’s COVID-19 Compliance Officers. Notably, employees who cannot feasibly wear a mask while performing work must undergo testing for COVID-19 at least twice per week, unless the District receives proof that such employee has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or that such employee has recently recovered from laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 within the past 90 days.

Face masks are not required when outdoors.

A note will be added to the District’s COVID-19 Containment, Response, and Control Plan (“COVID-19 Plan”) detailing this change in guidance and updated signage on campus reflects the new mandate. All other provisions of the posted COVID-19 Plan remain in effect.

There is no other impact to District operations at this time.

If you have questions, visit www.canyons.edu/news for the latest information about the College’s response to COVID-19.

Thank you for continuing to follow health guidelines and protecting the health of our colleagues and our students.

Sincerely,

Incident Command Team