Face Masks | Portland State University

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Portland State

PSU Face Covering Policy

PSU requires that any person on campus must wear a mask or face covering while indoors in
PSU owned, leased or controlled public spaces and in shared spaces. Masks or face coverings
are also required outdoors when on PSU property and when physical distancing expectations
(at least 6 feet apart) cannot be met.

Why Wash Your Hands?

Hand hygiene is an important part of the response to reducing the spread of COVID-19. Practicing hand hygiene, which includes the use of alcohol-based hand rub or hand washing, is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of pathogens and infections in healthcare settings.

CDC Recommendations

Why Wear A Mask?

You can transmit COVID-19 coronavirus even if you don’t feel sick. Some people can be contagious without even knowing that they have COVID-19. Remember that washing hands and keeping away from others are still important even though you are wearing a mask.

CDC Recommendations

Why Practice 6ft Physical Distancing?

COVID-19 spreads mainly among people who are in close contact (within about 6 feet) for a prolonged period. Since people can spread the virus before they know they are sick, it is important to stay at least 6 feet away from others when possible, even if you—or they—do not have any symptoms.

CDC Recommendations

What to Expect in Class

What if a student doesn't wear a mask to class?

The professor will ask the student to put on a mask, as it is the University Policy.
The student will be reminded of the ultimate goal. A class can not be taught if the student doesn't wear a mask. This will affect all individuals in the class.

What if the student refuses to put on a mask?

The student will be asked to leave the class.
If the student does not comply, the instructor may dismiss the entire class.
The instructor may refer the to the Dean of Student Life Office for disciplinary action, which will likely result in removing the student from the class.

Types of Face Masks

Cloth Face Masks: Homemade or commercially manufactured face masks are used to contain the wearer’s respiratory emissions.
Disposable Mask: Worn in non-health care settings. Commercially manufactured masks are used to contain the wearer’s respiratory emissions. Disposable masks should be thrown away after each use.
Surgical Mask: Reserved for healthcare workers providing patient care; helps contain the wearer’s respiratory emissions.
N95 Respirator: These masks are reserved for healthcare workers, first responders, and other approved areas with task-specific hazards.
Face Shields: A face shield is primarily used for eye protection for the person wearing it. At this time, it is not known what level of protection a face shield provides to people nearby from the spray of respiratory droplets from the wearer. There is currently not enough evidence to support the effectiveness of face shields for source control. Therefore, CDC does not currently recommend use of face shields as a substitute for masks.

When to Wear A Face Mask

Make it a habit to wear a face mask every time you leave home, and especially when you may come into contact with others. You never know when you will stop to talk to a neighbor or delivery person, or pass a jogger. Although you may think it is easy to keep six feet from others outside, it’s not always possible.

Use and Care of Cloth Face Masks

A cloth face mask should:

Fasten securely with ties or ear loops
Fit snugly but comfortably
Include multiple layers
Allow for breathing without restrictions
Be able to be laundered

Putting On/Taking Off the Mask

Wash hands or use hand sanitizer prior to handling.
Avoid touching the front of the mask.
Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth when removing the mask.
Wash hands immediately after removing.

Care, Storage and Laundering

Cloth face masks may not be used more than one day at a time and must be washed after daily use. They should be replaced immediately if soiled, damaged or visibly contaminated.
Keep cloth face masks in a paper bag when not in use.

Face Masks on Campus

Portland State has masks available to students. If you're a student in need of a face mask, please visit the PSU Mask Pick-Up Location page.

For faculty/staff, departments can contact PSU Materials Management Services (MMS) to obtain cloth masks (at no cost) to distribute to employees please fill out this form.

Additional Resources