This message contains handouts to help IRMA’s members comply with the new emergency rule regarding enforcement of face coverings.
As you know, businesses can now be fined if a consumer fails to wear a mask. Within the rule are ‘reasonable efforts’ businesses can take to avoid a fine. Per the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) any business following the Phase 4 Guidelines is considered to be in compliance. Additionally, the emergency rule imposing fines on businesses has something of a hold harmless provision if the business undertakes ‘reasonable efforts’. Reasonable efforts include but are not limited to:
- posting signage requiring face coverings to be worn on the premises;
- providing face coverings to customers;
- giving verbal warnings to customers to wear a face covering when on the premises; and,
- requesting that customers leave the premises if not wearing a face covering.
Verbally interacting directly with a consumer who is not wearing a mask bears significant risk as we have seen countless times in Illinois and nationwide. In order to assist Illinois retailers with meeting the last two dot points and thereby meet the ‘reasonable effort’ standard, yet attempt to protect them from dangerous interaction, IRMA has developed two handout options employees can simply hand a consumer and walk away rather than endangering themselves. One includes a ‘must leave’ statement. The other does not contain that statement in the event you find that statement too confrontational.
We hope you find these useful as you attempt to balance compliance and safety. These are designed for you to add your logo should you desire. As always, if IRMA can be of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.