To keep the workplace safe for employees and customers, L&I has provided guidance such as mask-wearing. However, for some workers and customers, medical issues or disabilities make face coverings unsafe to wear. This may require employers to make adjustments to the rules. To be considered exempt from wearing a face-covering, employees must provide their employer with an accommodation statement from their health care provider. The statement must specify that the employee should not wear a face-covering because of a health condition or disability. Employers with workers who are unable to wear masks must take alternative steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
In general, employers should follow the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) process: www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/fact-sheet-disability-discrimination.
For more information, go to: www.Lni.wa.gov/go/F414-164-000.