Coronavirus: All Walmart Employees Must Wear Masks at Work

SAN ANGELO, TX – Walmart has announced all employees and staff will be required to cover their faces while at work. Associates will be allowed to wear their own masks as long as they meet certain guidelines.

In a press release, the chain announced they are making face coverings mandatory as “health guidance has shifted.” Customers are also encouraged to cover their face will shopping in Walmart stores.

“The CDC now recommends wearing face coverings in public settings, including grocery stores, to help curb the spread of the virus,” said the retailer in a statement. “Although most state and local governments do not mandate the use of face coverings in public settings.”

Employees will continue to be required to pass an associate health screen and temperature checks before they begin their shift. Exceptions can be made based on local laws and individual health needs.

The decision comes after the CDC “reported that recent studies show a significant portion of individuals with the virus lack symptoms and can transmit the virus.”

“With this knowledge, we believe it is simply in everyone’s best interest to use masks or face coverings to curb the spread of this disease.”

The retailer will also extend their emergency leave through the end of May to ensure associates have the support they need when they have to miss work.

“Thank you for your commitment to helping ensure Walmart and Sam’s Club are safe places to work and shop. Together, we are providing a critical service for communities across the country. During this extraordinary time, our customers and members need us more than ever. Thank you for being there for them and each other.”