Cambridge residents required to cover mouth and nose in public places
MIT community members can obtain face coverings in Lobby 7
The City of Cambridge issued a temporary emergency order April 28 requiring individuals over four years old to wear a face covering over the mouth and nose in public places. The order took effect April 29 and will remain in effect until “further notice” or until Cambridge’s state of emergency is rescinded.
MIT has updated its emergency housing guidance in response to the order. In addition to previous policies, the new guidelines state that the order “also applies to common areas of residential buildings” unless residents maintain six feet of separation.
The guidelines require MIT community members living in on-campus residential buildings to wear face coverings when entering any common area, including lobbies, hallways, elevators, stairwells, dining areas, laundry rooms, garages or parking lots, and walkways.
Violations to these guidelines “may result in a referral to the Committee on Discipline” or “interim disciplinary measures” including “immediate removal from MIT housing.” The City of Cambridge may also fine those violating the emergency order up to $300.
Beginning April 29, MIT community members without a face covering may receive one in Lobby 7 after presenting an MIT ID.
Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker also extended the closure of non-essential businesses and stay-at-home order through May 18. MIT will “continue in its own mode of limited operations,” according to an Institute update.