Please, no neck gaiters
A study indicates that neck gaiters -- polyester tubes of fabric worn around the neck or over the face – are not as effective as other masks in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Neck gaiters no longer qualify as protective face coverings for employees at USA Health, a decision based on findings from a recent Duke University study.
The study indicates that neck gaiters -- polyester tubes of fabric worn around the neck or over the face – are not as effective as other masks in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Authors of the Duke study tested 14 types of masks using a laser field and camera to measure the number of droplets projected during speaking. They found that the neck gaiter dispersed larger particles into a greater number of smaller particles – a concern because smaller particles may linger in the air longer, the study’s authors said.
While the study was small in scope and more tests are needed, the findings raise enough concerns about neck gaiters to ban them for workplace use at USA Health.
According to the health system’s universal masking protocol, all employees are required to wear a facility-provided mask or a privately-owned mask at all times while in any USA Health facility. Failure to comply with universal masking protocol may result in progressive discipline up to and including termination.
