Is my grocery store requiring face coverings? A list of who is and isn't
Gov. Mike DeWine has mandated that employees must wear face coverings but not customers. For customers, the move is optional.
There are some exceptions when it comes to employees, which include the employee is prohibited by law, it's against documented industry best practices, is not advisable for health purposes, is a violation of a company's safety policies, an employee is sitting alone in an enclosed workspace as well as if there is a practical reason.
21 News reached out to different grocery stores on their policies when it comes to customers. Their responses are below.
Requiring Face Coverings for Customers:
Menards: They are asking all customers and employees to wear a mask while inside their stores. If someone doesn’t have their own mask, they do have just enough masks to be able to sell one mask per person for $1 at the entrance doors.
Costco: Effective May 4, members and guests must wear a face covering that covers the mouth and nose, at all times while at Costco. This requirement does not apply to children under the age of two or to individuals who are unable to wear a face covering due to a medical condition.
Not Requiring Face Coverings for Customers:
Walmart: They encourage customers to be especially mindful of one another and adhere to recommendations that we all use face coverings while in public spaces. Employees have been provided face coverings since April 20.
Giant Eagle: They encourage customers to follow the governor's recommendation that they wear a mask or other face covering while shopping. They began requiring all Giant Eagle, Market District and GetGo Team Members to wear masks or other face coverings on April 19.
Target: In areas where local governments are asking residents to wear masks, they have added signage and stationed team members outside stores to remind guests to wear masks while shopping. They're providing team members with high-quality, disposable face masks and gloves to wear at work and encouraging healthy hygiene habits as guided by the CDC.
Home Depot: They're providing non-medical masks to all associates to wear while at work and will encourage customers to do the same when they shop in their stores.
Marc's: Per the state's recommendations, they are encouraging -- although it is not mandatory -- for all customers to wear masks or facial coverings while shopping.
Meijer: Signs are being posted outside stores that read, "Face coverings are now required. Following state guidelines, we are now requiring all shoppers to cover their faces. Masks are best, but a scarf or something similar will work, too." However, the company says customers not wearing a mask are still shopping in the store.
