The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is ordering workers in critical businesses and critical government functions to wear nonmedical masks and gloves while at work to protect the health and welfare of the public.
Public Health Order 20-26 requires workers in those businesses who have close contact (within 6 feet) with other employees or the public wear cloth masks while working. It also orders those workers to wear gloves if they are in close contact with customers. The public health order encourages employers to provide masks and gloves for their employees.
The main reason to wear a nonmedical mask is to protect others. Data show that some people may spread COVID-19 when they do not have symptoms. People may spread the disease when speaking, coughing or sneezing – especially in situations where a physical distance of 6 feet cannot be maintained.
Colorado is asking everyone to wear a nonmedical cloth face covering while out in public. People can make or buy a covering that will cover their mouth and nose and use it whenever they are outside the house and yard.
This public health order will remain in place until May 17 unless it is extended, amended or rescinded.