What This Means for Our Clients

It is anticipated that state and local jurisdictions will loosen mask mandates for vaccinated individuals in the near future and private businesses will continue to have leeway in maintaining mask requirements in their establishments.

This change of guidance creates a number of unresolved questions for employers.  How to know if someone is truly vaccinated?  What proof is required of employees, customers, vendors?  Essentially, each establishment must plan its own response accordingly. 

At Affinity HR Group, our advice is to alleviate the mask mandate for those fully vaccinated and to ask for documentation for verification.  Just ask to see it (don't keep a copy) and explain you only want the information about the vaccine - nothing else. Then, you can record who can be maskless and who should continue to wear a mask.

To maintain a safe workplace, we encourage employers to continue to require those non-vaccinated individuals to wear masks and socially distance to protect vulnerable employees and customers until the CDC institutes further guidance.  

This also creates an opportunity for businesses challenged by vaccine hesitancy among their workforce.  In addition to providing guidance, reassurance, and support for employees reluctant to get vaccinated, allowing employees who are fully vaccinated to resume business as usual without the restrictions of mask-wearing or socially distancing may create the incentive necessary for them to consider vaccination.

Regardless of any pushback you get from employees, business owners can set the policies you think are necessary to keep employees safe and healthy, even if they are more strict than the current requirements in your area. 

For help in developing your workplace vaccine and mask policy, connect with us at contact@AffinityHRGroup.com or 877-660-6400.  Our COVID-19 HR Support is an affordable option for businesses that require extra help in navigating the ongoing workplace changes.