Workers Should Still Wear Masks in the Workplace, Survey Finds

June 29, 2021
A majority of U.S. adults surveyed say that employees, even fully vaccinated employees, should continue to mask up at work.

A majority of Americans believe employees working on-site should wear masks even if they are vaccinated, a new survey finds (results of the survey can be found in the accompanying slideshow).

The survey of 2,066 U.S. adults aged 18 and up was conducted June 10-14 by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Staffing Association.

This survey was conducted two weeks after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated its guidance to say that fully vaccinated people no longer need to wear masks or physical distance in non-healthcare settings unless required by local law or business.

These attitudes highlight divergent beliefs and comfort levels among the workforce. Employers must continue to carefully navigate and incorporate these attitudes when crafting and enforcing COVID-19 safety protocols to protect all workers.

"While government officials are rolling back Covid-19 requirements throughout the country, many workers aren't ready to give up their masks just yet," said Richard Wahlquist, president of the American Staffing Association, in a statement. "As brick-and-mortar workplaces reopen, workers are anxious about being around their colleagues once again. Employers must clearly communicate what steps they are taking to make their workplaces safe for their employees as they reopen."

See more of the results of the survey in the accompanying slideshow.

About the Author

Nicole Stempak

Nicole Stempak is managing editor of EHS Today and conference content manager of the Safety Leadership Conference.

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