TSA announces employees must wear facial protection as COVID-19 cases, deaths rise among workers

TSA announced Thursday that its employees must wear facial protection while at screening checkpoints.

The decision to require TSA officers to wear facial protection will be implemented over the coming days, according to the TSA. It is an additional measure to help minimize spread of COVID-19 and help raise the overall health and safety level inside the airport environment. Wearing protective eyewear remains voluntary by TSA personnel who are serving in an active screening position.

“TSA is making this change to protect our employees and travelers as social distancing cannot always be maintained in the screening process.” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske.

Passengers are encouraged to wear facial protection and individuals may be asked to momentarily lower their facial covering for identity verification purposes, or if screening equipment alarms on it. TSA is considering further changes to its screening system to further minimize the risk and to limit physical interactions in the security checkpoint.

Travelers are reminded to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel and prevention guidance regarding COVID-19.

Overall, TSA has had 534 federal employees test positive for COVID-19. 285 employees have recovered, and 6 have died as a result of the virus. One screening contractor has also passed away due to the virus.

18 TSA Screening Officers at Logan Airport have tested positive for COVID-19.