Faculty and Staff –

Effective Monday, April 27 until further notice, the University of Houston is now requiring face masks for those faculty and staff working on-campus in situations where they are in close proximity (within 6 feet) of others. This requirement is also directed to all who are visiting campus, including students, contractors and visitors (10 years of age or older).   This measure is being taken in light of recent recommendations from the CDC, the federal government and Harris County regarding wearing face coverings.

Please note that face coverings do not need to be worn in the following circumstances:

• When working alone in a single office
• When engaging in physical activity outside
• When doing so poses a greater mental or physical health, safety or security risk
• While operating outdoor equipment if not appropriate from a safety standpoint
• When consuming food or drink

Individuals are asked to wear a face covering (examples include bandana, scarf, handkerchief or other homemade mask) that covers their nose and mouth. Cloth face coverings should be washed daily. The use of surgical masks, surgical N-95 respirators of other medical masks is strongly discouraged to maintain the resources for health care providers and first responders. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing and regular handwashing. Continue to keep a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others.

Resources for Making Your Own Face Covering

• CDC guidelines including how to make a simple face covering: Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19.
• How to Make Your Own Face Covering with Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Adams, in a few easy steps.
• How to Make a Face Covering with a bandana and hair bands.
• For additional information, please see: CDC Guidance on Face Covering

We appreciate your support in implementing this important requirement. 

Regards,

Jim McShan
Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance
 cfo@uh.edu
832-842-5550