COVID-19 Team Update: Face Coverings Policies

The CDC recently updated their face covering guidance based on an individual’s vaccination status. As previously mentioned, we have been evaluating this new guidance to determine how to adapt our current policies.

At this time, Smithsonian’s face covering policy for staff remains unchanged – regardless of vaccination status, employees must wear face coverings in Smithsonian buildings and leased spaces as well as outside on Smithsonian grounds.

Beginning June 1, 2021, fully vaccinated employees, contractors, or other affiliated persons who are working outside and can easily maintain distance from colleagues and others may remove their face coverings, unless otherwise required by local jurisdictions.

Additionally, all public and official visitors to Smithsonian facilities are still required to wear face coverings within Smithsonian facilities. Fully vaccinated visitors are not required to wear face coverings in our outdoor spaces, notably when visiting the outdoor areas of the National Zoo, the Hirshhorn Sculpture Garden, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center’s outdoor trails, and when visiting any of Smithsonian’s outdoor gardens.

This guidance will continue to evolve, please continue to monitor your email and the COVID-19 website for additional information. Thank you for your diligence in following our safety protocols and your continued attention to this topic.

Stay safe and be well,
COVID-19 Response Team

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