By Joshua Huff, sports editor
Shoppers will soon be required to wear face masks at all times within Costco, the company announced on Wednesday.
The rule is scheduled to go into effect on May 4.
The move is aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. The company said that face coverings must be worn at all times in the store and is not a substitute for social distancing.
“The use of a mask or face covering should not be seen as a substitute for social distancing. Please continue to observe rules regarding appropriate distancing while on Costco premises,” the company said in a statement.
Much like the Birmingham ordinance passed by the Birmingham City Council, 8-1, on Tuesday, the rule pertains to anyone over the age of 2 and those who cannot wear a mask because of medical conditions.
Birmingham identified a face covering as “a device to cover the nose and mouth of a person to impede the spread of saliva or other fluids during speaking, coughing, sneezing or other intentional or involuntary action. Medical grade masks are not required; coverings may be fashioned from scarves, bandanas or other suitable fabrics. The mask must cover the mouth and nose of the wearer.”
Costco will also return to normal hours beginning on Monday, May 4, 2020, though certain locations would be open from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. for members who are 60 and older and for people with disabilities.
Healthcare workers and first responders will be allowed priority access during open hours, and will be allowed to move to the front of lines.
Only two people per membership card are allowed in Costco at a time.
