Laguna Beach issues order requiring essential workers to wear face coverings

Laguna Beach issued an emergency order Thursday night requiring all essential workers not providing medical services to wear a face covering as a measure against the spread of the coronavirus.

Starting Friday, all essential employees at grocery stores, pharmacies, home improvement stores, gas station convenience stores, restaurants providing take-out or delivery services, banks, savings and loans and credit unions must wear face coverings that shield their noses and mouths while at work. Workers are discouraged from using medical grade equipment such as N95 masks, which are being reserved for use by medical professionals.

“We are requiring all essential workers in Laguna Beach wear a face covering to help slow the spread of COVID-19,� City Manager John Pietig said in a statement. “This is an additional level of protection for both our residents and our essential workers still on the frontlines providing food and critical services to our community.�

The order follows guidance issued by the county on Thursday, which suggested everyone involved in essential activities wear a face covering, in alignment with recommendations by the California Department of Public Health.

Face coverings are defined as “material that covers the nose and mouth. It can be secured to the head with ties or straps, or simply wrapped around the lower face. Face coverings may be factory-made, as well as folded or sewn, and can be improvised using household items like scarfs, T-shirts, sweatshirts or towels.�

Violators of the Laguna Beach order are subject to civil enforcement actions and penalties of up to $500 per violation per day.

The order will remain in effect until the expiration of the stay-at-home order and the city will not impose penalties until April 13 for grocery store workers and until April 17 at all other essential businesses.

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