Mask Requirements

PA Department of Health Order

On Tuesday, November 17th, the Pennsylvania Department of Health issued an order concerning mask-wearing requirements in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  The details of this order are already incorporated in Chatham's masking protocol. 

Masks Are Required

Indoors at all times, including: 

• In classrooms and labs
• In offices and conference spaces
• In common areas
• In public spaces like the library, gym, or dining hall (when not eating)
• When meeting with at least one other person, even if people are sitting six feet apart
• When traveling from workspace to restroom, copier, etc.
• On shuttles or if being transported by public safety

Masks Are Not Required

• When alone in an office, workspace, residence hall private room, or apartment
• When outside and can easily maintain social distancing of six feet or more 

Mask Accommodations

If masks are not an option for medical or religious reasons, the use of a face shield is a viable alternative. However, face shields may not be acceptable in all locations or based on activity (e.g., using the weight room in the AFC).

If a face shield is still not acceptable for accommodations under Title VII or the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), students should contact the Office of Academic and Accessibility Resources (OAAR) and employees should contact Human Resources. 

Mask Best Practices

• Mask must cover your nose and mouth.
• Disposable, reusable, purchased, and homemade masks are all acceptable. Pick one that’s comfortable for you, can stay on your face without you holding it here, and store it in a clean place when not in use.
• Reusable masks should be washed daily at least.
• Guests, visitors and contractors are also required to wear masks.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth when putting on or removing your mask.
• Practice hand hygiene before and after handling the mask. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you use hand sanitizer, it should be alcohol-based and contain at least 60% alcohol. 
• The mask does not diminish the importance of other preventive measures, such as social distancing and hand hygiene.

Mask Availability

Chatham will provide all students and employees with a mask to supplement any masks they already use. 

Masks will be available to students during Orientation and at the Office of Student Affairs in Woodland Hall.  If anyone forgets their mask, or it becomes damaged, they can pick up a replacement at the Office of Student Affairs, too.

Masks help stop the spread of COVID-19, and are required at Chatham to help keep our community safe. Watch this Cougars Care video and read on for specifics about mask requirements, best practices and availability.