As more employees in Washington State get ready to return to work, many of them will have to decide whether and when to wear a mask.

Wearing a mask is advised in King County but does not come with the power of enforcement. Employers and stores as well must decide whether they want to suggest or require that people wear masks to protect from the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The World Health Organization has a detailed website that deals with how to wear a mask and in what situations. The site also includes graphics to illustrate the advice.

Some basics include:

• Put on a mask with hands clean from soap and water or an alcohol-based rub
• Cover your mouth and nose and make sure there are no gaps between your face and mask.
• Wear a mask if you’re coughing or sneezing.
• Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
• Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use single-use masks.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also have guidance on wearing cloth masks here.

WR employs Rick Means as Director of Safety & Education. He’s available to assist members with drawing up safety plans and to suggest topics for safety meetings. Reach Rick at [email protected] or 360-200-6454.