The California Department of Public Health issued Guidance for the use of face coverings on June 18, 2020, which mandates that face coverings be worn State-wide when inside of, or in line to enter, any indoor public space, workplace or common area (such as hallways, stairways, elevators, parking facilities, etc.). These guidelines specifically apply to community associations that are employers or operate "places of employment." This includes high rise buildings, communities with on-site management offices and communities with manned guard gates, among others.
As a result of this Guidance, we are seeing an uptick in Cal/OSHA complaints regarding mask wearing in communities. Community associations are now being cited for not enforcing mask wearing inside the indoor public spaces, workplaces and common areas within community associations such as the lobby, management offices, guard gates, etc. Cal/OSHA complaints can also result in Cal/OSHA conducting on-site inspections and imposing monetary penalties.
It is recommended that community associations that are employers or operate places of employment apply best practices regarding face coverings to protect members, guests, vendors and employees. These practices include posting signs regarding Face Covering Requirements at entry and exit locations and requiring anyone entering the lobby, management office, and the like, to wear a mask and to follow protocols mandated by California law. Enforcement procedures should be clearly communicated to employees and vendors to minimize the association's risk as it complies with State and County requirements.
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