Modified University Face Covering Policy
In accordance with Los Angeles County Health Officer Orders, Pepperdine currently requires masks indoors, as noted on the University's face covering policy. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has now updated its guidance to require all employees and students to wear a surgical or KN95/N95 (without a valve) mask. Unless paired with one of the aforementioned types of masks, cloth face coverings for community members are no longer permitted. Pepperdine has updated the University’s face covering policy accordingly. These face coverings must be worn in all indoor campus settings. This includes, but is not limited to, classrooms, hallways, the HAWC, the Light House, libraries, fitness facilities, and residential hall community spaces. These masks will also be required in residence hall suites, apartments, or individual rooms when guests are present.
Images of the different types of acceptable masks are provided below, along with a description of each type.
Surgical Mask: A surgical mask is a disposable device that creates a physical barrier between the mouth and nose of the wearer and potential contaminants in the immediate environment. A cloth face covering worn over a surgical mask offers filtration of particles similar to an N95 or KN95 mask.
N95: An N95 mask is a respiratory protective device designed to achieve a very close facial fit and very efficient filtration of airborne particles. N95 masks with valves are not acceptable.
KN95: A KN95 mask is the international equivalent of an N95 mask.
The University is procuring an inventory of these masks for use by our community. Masks will be available for pick up by faculty, staff, and students at any of the Malibu or graduate campus COVID-19 screening test sites beginning Monday, January 10. Upon showing a Pepperdine ID card, community members will be provided with a weekly supply of medical grade masks for that particular week. The supply provided will include a combination of surgical and KN95/N95 masks.
The University understands this is a rapid change, but it is necessary for the health of all faculty, staff, and students. This mandate will be effective January 10 for at least the next two weeks (through January 21). No exceptions will be made to wear cloth face coverings in any indoor campus facilities unless worn in combination with a surgical, N95, or KN95 mask.
If you have questions, please contact the COVID-19 Information Line at 310.506.8111 or via email at covid19info@pepperdine.edu.