Cloth face coverings prevent the person wearing the mask from spreading respiratory droplets when talking, sneezing, or coughing. If everyone wears a face covering, the risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, can be reduced for the community. Face coverings worn by others protect you from getting the virus from people who are carrying the virus.
TSA Guidance pertaining to Employee Use of Cloth Face Coverings
Cloth face coverings are NOT the same as medical face masks, surgical masks, or N95 respirators. They are not classified as personal protective equipment (PPE).
TSA frontline employees performing security screening operations and Federal Air Marshals in flight status are still required to wear surgical masks or may elect to voluntarily wear KN90 or N95 respirators, as these functions require personal protective equipment.
TSA employees who work in office settings or locations away from TSA frontline operations in airport settings are permitted to use cloth face coverings in place of surgical masks. Employees may wear their personally-acquired cloth face coverings; however, they must be workplace-appropriate and cannot feature political or offensive images or content.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides instructions on how to make a cloth face covering.
Instructions for Use
When using a cloth face covering, make sure:
Your mouth and nose are fully covered
The covering fits snugly but comfortably against the side of the face so there are no gaps
It is secured with ties or ear loops to prevent slipping
The covering allows for breathing without restriction
You avoid touching your face as much as possible.
Clean hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer immediately before putting on, after touching or adjusting, or after removing the cloth face covering.
You are the only one handling your covering.
