Masking Guidelines

Revised Los Angeles County Masking Guidelines

Masking Indoors and in Crowded Spaces Strongly Recommended

While SMC will not be requiring or enforcing indoor masking except for within the Student Health Center, the college strongly recommends masking indoors and in crowded spaces both indoors and outdoors (for example, at fairs and other such social events) where social distancing is not possible. Surgical masks and hand sanitizer will be made available in all high-traffic areas such as the Student Services Center and the Cafeteria.

SMC’s “Masking Matrix” Repealed, College Will Follow LA County Requirements

Previously, SMC used its Mask Mandate Decision Matrix (PDF File) (opens in new window) —which used CDC community transmission levels as a benchmark—for masking-related decisions that would impact the college community’s day-to-day activities when on site at one of the college’s campuses. Going forward, Santa Monica College will no longer be using this matrix because it is based on outdated metrics, but will rather rely on LA County Public Health’s requirements for Institutes of Higher Education to inform masking protocols.

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District Supplied Masks

Employees and Students will continue to be supplied with surgical masks, KN95 masks in offices, classrooms, and the entrances of buildings.

It is important to note that employees who wish to use an N95 mask are required to take the following steps before using an N95 mask:

Read the CDC training documents on how to properly wear an N95 mask. Put on and Check Disposable Respirator (opens in new window)
Read and sign the Voluntary Use Agreement. Information for Voluntary Respirator Use (opens in new window)
Submit the signed Voluntary Use Agreement to ariass_glaurys@smc.edu in Risk Management

Employees who wish to use surgical masks or KN95 masks do not need to follow this process and can immediately use those products without taking additional steps.

Employee Mask Reordering

To replenish your initial supply of masks, departments need to follow the Adobe Sign PPE ordering form instructions attached. Instructions for Ordering PPE and Sanitizer (MS Word File) (opens in new window)

If you have any questions or concerns don't hesitate to contact Daniel Phillips, Director of Risk Management, at phillips_daniel@smc.edu.

For More Information/Questions:

Please check out the LA County Public Health webpage (opens in new window) —it contains a wealth of information, from resources on how/where to get vaccinated, to the latest data, safety tips, what to do if you’re sick/exposed, and so much more.
About specific faculty assignments, contact Jason Beardsley, Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs.
About Counseling assignments, contact Michael Tuitasi, Vice President of Student Affairs.
Employee accommodations based on individual health concerns should be referred to Human Resources.
Students accommodations based on individual concerns should be sent to the Student Health Center.
If you have a positive case in your class or office, contact the COVID-19 HR Response Team at 310-434-4415.
Please check out the LA County Public Health webpage (opens in new window) —it contains a wealth of information, from resources on how/where to get vaccinated, to the latest data, safety tips, what to do if you’re sick/exposed, and so much more.