The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant changes to the workplace. Business owners want to keep their employees and customers safe. But how can they do that? Wearing masks at work is one of many recommendations, but it's not always easy with so many different safety standards for every industry. This blog post will help you understand when a mask should be worn, why it needs to be worn, what types are available, and more!

When to wear a mask?

First, find out what the face-covering requirements are in your area. In some places and jobs, face masks are mandatory, and many states require employers to provide masks to their workers. It is beneficial to wear a mask at all times and cover the lower half of your face. There is no one-size-fits-all mask; you'll need to find the right type for your needs and make sure it fits correctly.

Masks are most effective when worn against infectious agents that can be airborne, like COVID-19 or other respiratory diseases. They should also protect themselves from droplets created by sneezing and coughing.

When should they be worn? 

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing a face mask if you're near someone who is sick, in crowded areas like schools or airports, or when working around others with infections. One must also consider the recent rise of the Delta variant. This new strain of the virus is more easily transmitted, and it takes longer to show symptoms.

Wearing masks at work can be a great way to protect yourself and your coworkers. When worn correctly, they reduce the chance of infection by up to 50%. They also provide some protection against pollen, dust, pet dander, or other allergens. Wear them when you need them for any reason (including allergies).

What types are available?

At the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, masks were harder to come by, with many people having to make their own out of t-shirts and other everyday fabrics around the house. There are smart masks such as the Airon Mask, which provides the highest level of filtration with a built-in fan for added airflow. 

*Some people may be sensitive to materials like cotton or wool (for example, those with allergies). In that case, polyester and other synthetic fabrics are recommended.