Safety Knights

Respiratory Fit Testing

I sent an employee (who is an Emergency Coordinator with a Managerial title) to an occupational health center for a respiratory fit test. In my state, it is mandatory to wear a face covering or mask at all places of business. This employee was being fit tested for a full face respirator. However, I received a call from the Occupational Center letting me know that the employee refused to wear a face mask in their facility. The Occupational Nurse offered a face mask but the employee refused to wear it. The employee refused and left without being fit tested. This employee does not have any type of medical reason or doctor’s note which would may exempt him from the local/state requirements for wearing a face mask/covering. I have worked with this employee for years. He is defiant and has his beliefs however, this is a workplace. He is an employee and company policy is not up for debate due to an employee’s personal and political opinions and beliefs. Being sent for a fit test is on company time and the employees’ responsibility. As the EHS Manager, I’m curious how my fellow ‘Safety Knights’ would proceed. Thank you.