Helpful Communication About Lenbrook’s Recent Fabric Mask Policy

April 16, 2020/in

Dear Associates,

On April 10, 2020, as a result of the COVID-19 Task Force recommendation, Lenbrook is now requiring all associates to, at a minimum, wear a fabric facemask. The use of fabric facemasks by associates reduces the risk of transmitting a virus from an asymptomatic person to someone else and conserves the supply of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) specified N-95 masks which must be worn by healthcare personnel.

Why should I want to wear a cloth face covering/mask?

CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. CDC also advises the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Wearing a face covering at work can help prevent an associate from transmitting the virus to another person through direct or indirect contact.

How do I wear a cloth face covering/mask? A fabric facemask should:

  • fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  • be secured with ties or ear loops
  • include multiple layers of fabric
  • allow for breathing without restriction
  • be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape

NOTE:  Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing.

How do I protect my cloth face covering/mask?

  • Perform hand hygiene before putting on or removing mask (Hand hygiene can be washing your hands with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol)
  • Never touch outside of mask; it is considered dirty
  • Put on and remove mask by ear loops or ties
  • Do not pull mask below chin or dangle mask off ear
  • Fold mask in half so the outside of the mask is touching then store in a paper bag or a plastic Ziploc bag
  • Do not put mask in a purse or clothing pocket
  • Fabric masks should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use
  • A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a face covering

When should I wear my cloth face covering/mask?

  • A fabric face covering / mask is now considered part of each associate’s uniform – just like a name tag or a departmental shirt. Associates should be prepared to apply a mask upon entry to the campus and should wear it throughout the entire shift.  When eating a meal, the mask may be removed but be sure to be at least six feet from others while eating.  Besides social distancing and hand washing, this is one of the most important things each of us can to keep ourselves healthy.  Do it for yourself and do it for others. 

Who is required to wear a fabric facemask?

  • Every person entering the campus must wear a fabric facemask at all times.  This includes all associates regardless or title or department.  This also includes Menders by Lenbrook associates, Outside Personal Providers, essential visitors – everyone. 

Who is responsible for enforcing this policy?

  • Like other policies, managers will be responsible for enforcing these policies at the departmental level. However, please feel free to report your concerns or issues of non-compliance to [email protected].

What else can I do?

  • Practice social distancing by keeping 6ft from the next person – act as if everyone is infected!
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • Use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

  • Due to the shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE), it is your responsibility as an associate to keep up with your fabric mask that was issued by Lenbrook.

Associates will be able to obtain a replacement fabric mask from the C-store by making a donation to Lenbrook’s Associate Hardship Fund.