Dear Orange County Family,
As you may already know, the number of positive COVID-19 cases has continued to increase substantiality within our community over the past 10 days. We currently have a total of 3,900 cases and there have been 48 deaths. More than 100,000 individuals have been tested, with a positivity rate of 3.8%. This rapid increase in positive cases is sobering. It is a stark reminder that we must be diligent and persistent in adhering to the safety measures put in place to protect all County employees and their families, as well as our residents.
As a result of the dramatic increase in numbers, I have signed an
Executive Order
requiring every person working, living, visiting or doing business in Orange County to wear a face covering consistent with
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines
while in any public place. This will go into effect on Saturday June 20, 2020, at 12:01 a.m. until further notice and is in the best interest of all businesses, especially bars and restaurants.
This means anyone entering our County facilities will be required to wear a face covering. In addition, all employees coming into various worksites, must also wear a face covering while interacting with the public and/or other staff in close proximity. We have cloth masks for every employee. Department representatives will ensure employees receive them, along with hand sanitizer, when in the workplace. Please note, this may not apply to public health or public safety employees or classes of employees required to wear specified protective equipment over their face as a job requirement.
I want to emphasize the importance of continuing to practice social distancing to help slow the spread of the virus. Also remember the 3 Ws – Wear a mask, Wash your hands, and Watch your distance.
I also want to make sure you are aware of the
Guidance for Managing COVID-19 Exposure
.
This document will assist you in determining when and how leadership will respond to an employee who may have become “at risk” because he or she had prolonged close exposure, has COVID-19 symptoms outlined by the CDC or has been tested positive (with or without symptoms) for COVID-19 infection.
We do not want another shut down. More importantly, we do not want to put anyone at risk, especially our employees who remain a top priority.
However, please know that if this trend continues and safety measures are not followed more drastic action will need to be taken. I am asking for everyone to comply so we do not need any further action, which would include penalties and disciplinary action.
Thank you, again, for continuing to set the example and your commitment to keeping everyone safe.
The above requirements do not supersede any previous or related safety directives specific to public health or public safety employees or classes of employees required to wear specified protective equipment over their face as a job requirement.
