What is the average person’s responsibility when professionals aren’t using their masks correctly, or aren’t using masks or sanitization practices at all? I don’t know all of the laws and rules off the top of my head for each industry, and to be honest I’m a little weirded out by asking a server to put on a mask, or pull it over their nose, etc., but I see this issue constantly.
Alison Bernstein, Ph.D.:
This is an ethical question, not a science question, so I will just provide my opinion. Personally, I would leave and tell them why. If we went to a restaurant to get take out and they were not masked, I would not get food from there again and would tell them why. If I went to a store where the staff was not masked, I would do the same. If you are in a place without a mask mandate from your local or state government, this is about all that is in your power to do. If there is a mask mandate, you have a bit more on your side to remind them of the law.
The best way around this, in my opinion, is to take enforcement of masking out of the hands of individuals and pass mask requirements and implement fines for non-compliance. I’m not sure about the legal issues surrounding passing such laws, though.
Chris Kemp, M.S.:
We all have a role to play in combating SARS-CoV-2. The correct approach is to wear a mask always when inside buildings (except your own home), wash your hands often, maintain social distance, and don't touch your face/mouth/nose/eyes. If a server isn't wearing a mask or wearing it improperly, either tell them to fix it, or leave the business. Those are really the only two options. Contact the restaurants after leaving to tell owners their staff is not wearing masks properly.