Alert icon Prepared SCU information is consistent with Cal/OSHA COVID-19 prevention regulations, which took effect on February 3, 2023, and will remain in place until February 3, 2025.
Masks are not required in classrooms unless required by a faculty member. Students are expected to adhere to masking guidelines set forth by their faculty. Failure to comply with a faculty member’s mask requirement will be seen as violating the Student Conduct Code.
The CDC, State, and local health departments recommend well-fitting masks with good filtration such as disposable surgical masks, multi-layered cloth masks with at least 3 layers, KN95, KF94, and N95s. KN95, KF94, and N95s provide higher levels of protection and are encouraged. All masks should have a nose wire and must fit tightly.
Masks can provide different levels of protection depending on the type of mask and how they are used. Loosely woven cloth products provide the least protection, layered finely woven products offer more protection, well-fitting disposable surgical masks, KN95, KF94, and N95s offer even more protection.
The most important factor to consider when selecting a mask is fit. A mask should have a nose wire and completely cover your nose and mouth. It should also be secure under your chin and fit snugly against the sides of your face without gaps along the edges or around the nose. Regardless of the mask type, it is only effective if worn over your mouth and nose. KN95s, KF94, and N95 offer better protection.
The campus has been distributing KN95s but cannot guarantee a continued, indefinite supply. You can purchase your own using a direct source or vetted source for masks. KN95 masks are available at Learning Commons and at the JST front desk. Surgical masks are available in classrooms.
Yes, with proper care, these masks should be reusable for an extended period of time. Remove your mask correctly and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer after touching a used mask. Keep it in a dry, breathable bag (like a paper or mesh fabric bag) to keep it clean between uses. Do not attempt to wash your disposable mask, KN95, KF94, or N95.
Contact the SCU EHS department at ehs@scu.edu.