February 3, 2025, marked the end of the remaining Cal/OSHA workplace requirements relating to COVID. This means that employees no longer need to report test results or COVID illness to Health Services and are no longer required to wear a mask after illness. Other prior requirements have now become strong recommendations for maintaining workplace health.

These recommended practices include:

• Going home and staying home when feeling ill
• Considering masking when returning to work after an illness
• Maintaining good hand and general hygiene and cough etiquette
• Keeping up with preventative vaccinations on an ongoing basis

While COVID-specific signage and messaging will be removed in the coming weeks, these health practices remain vital for protecting each other from the inconvenience and discomfort (or worse) of all respiratory illnesses. They have always been and will continue to be, essential to optimizing both individual and public health.

Health Services remains available to address any questions about these changes or other health concerns. The Lab’s commitment to maintaining a healthy workplace continues, even as we adapt to this new phase. Your division will continue to provide masks and hand sanitizer upon request.

For guidance about medical care for COVID or other respiratory illnesses, returning to work after illness, or other health concerns, please contact your personal healthcare provider or Lab Health Services at 510-486-6266. For additional information, visit the Health Services website at https://ehs.lbl.gov/service/health-services/.