2
K-12 settings if a well-fitting mask is not tolerated. However, a face shield with a drape does
not provide the same level of protection for the wearer as a well-fitting mask or respirator.
See the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) K-12 School and Child Care guidance.
Also see CDC’s Considerations for specific groups of people. DOH recommends not using masks
with exhalation valves or vents, single layer cloth masks, single layer bandanas, or gaiters.
Please visit DOH’s webpage on masks for a list of frequently asked mask questions.
Throughout the rest of this document, mask is used to refer to both masks and respirators.
COVID-19 guidance is subject to change because of changing circumstances, such as strains on
the healthcare system or new COVID-19 variants.
Current Requirements
The Secretary of Health Mask Order that established statewide requirements for masking in
specific indoor settings has been rescinded. However, you may still be required to wear a mask
in certain circumstances or settings.
Washington State Labor and Industries (L&I)
Although masks are not generally required in most workplaces, employers remain obligated to
follow L&I Requirements and Guidance for Preventing COVID-19. Additionally, private
businesses can choose to require masks, and visitors should respect the rules of the room.
Local Public Health Officials
Public health authorities may require masks in some situations, such as outbreaks. Because of
local circumstances, they may recommend masking in situations beyond those described in this
guidance. Local health officials have the authority to issue health orders to control diseases
within their jurisdiction. Check with your local health jurisdiction and follow all health orders in
place for that area.
Recommendations
Below are public health recommendations in addition to the requirements above.
Public Transportation Settings
DOH recommends that workers and passengers aged two years or older wear a well-fitting
mask or respirator in indoor public transportation settings, including conveyances (such as
airplanes, buses, trains, ferries, subways, taxis, rideshares, and non-emergent medical
transportation) and hubs (such as airports, bus or ferry terminals, train or subway stations, and
seaports). These are settings that many people pass through, and they can be crowded and/or
poorly ventilated (such as airport jetways). Travelers and workers can protect themselves and
those around them by wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator to help keep travel and public
transportation safer for everyone. Information about when masking is most useful during travel
can be found in CDC guidance about masking during travel. DOH encourages operators of public
transportation to support mask wearing by all people.