Aloha UH ʻohana,

As the fall 2020 semester is about to begin, please remember that anyone coming to campus will be required to wear an acceptable face covering while on campus, indoors and outdoors. This includes all employees, students and campus visitors. If you do not have a face covering while on campus, you will be sent home.

In accordance with UH COVID-19 Guidelines, employees who do not follow the mandatory face covering requirement will face progressive disciplinary action. Consultation with each of the unions on the progressive disciplinary action was concluded on July 31. Disciplinary action will only be taken in the event an employee refuses, without a medical reason, to wear a face covering on campus after being given an opportunity to comply with the requirement (e.g., by returning to their car to obtain a forgotten face mask). Supervisors are asked to remain vigilant when monitoring compliance for their employees.

Face coverings are considered one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus, especially when done in conjunction with other basic prevention measures such as monitoring for symptoms and possible exposure, practicing 6-feet of physical distancing from others and washing your hands frequently.

Acceptable face coverings include:

• Cloth masks, two-ply cotton with loops or ties on the side
• Two-ply cotton cloth bandanas
• Surgical-style and dental masks with straps
• Plastic face shields, but only when used in combination with the above acceptable face coverings

N95, N99, and N100 respirators are not considered acceptable face coverings. They are a form of personal protective equipment and should be reserved for health care professionals and for those assigned to wear them for specific work activities.

Face masks and respirators with exhalation valves are also not acceptable as they only protect the wearer and not those around them.

More information can be found in the face coverings section of the UH System COVID-19 Guidelines and Face Covering FAQs.

Everyone is asked to do their part to stay safe and help keep others safe.

If you have questions, please contact your departmental HR office.

Mahalo nui loa,
University of Hawaiʻi Office of Human Resources