San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in the US, in accordance with the recent order issued by the San Mateo County Public Health Office, has urged all members of the public to wear face coverings.
The order is aimed at protecting its passengers and employees and helping to mitigate the impact of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.
Go deeper with GlobalData
SFO has also placed signage notifying passengers that they are required to wear face coverings. The coverings must fully cover the nose and mouth and fit securely, SFO noted.
Homemade masks such as a bandana, scarf, towel, or other piece of cloth or fabric that covers the nose and mouth will be allowed at the airport.
In addition, SFO reminded the public to refrain from buying hospital-grade (N95) masks to ensure a supply for health care workers and first responders.
Apart from wearing masks, the passengers are required to maintain social distancing by keeping at least six feet of separation from others.
They are also advised to follow public health and CDC recommendations for minimising the spread of the coronavirus. This includes frequent hand washing and regular sanitisation of common spaces and touch points.
SFO has already instructed Airport Commission employees, tenants and contractors to wear face coverings when in duty. The employees are also required to wear the mask while walking through public areas, including terminal spaces and parking facilities.
The airport is currently open for essential travel. It regularly confers with local, state, and federal health officials regarding measures to protect against Covid-19.
It has reported a 97% decrease in travel as travellers stay home due to the coronavirus lockdown orders.
