Orono, Maine -- Per University of Maine system guidance, face coverings are required indoors for all persons - students, staff, faculty, and visitors, on campus at all UMaine Athletics sporting events.

• Face coverings are required indoors for all persons – students, staff, faculty and visitors – regardless of vaccination status when indoors at a University facility.  This has been extended to be effective through October 31, 2021. This requirement may be ended or further extended depending on civil guidance, the trajectory of the pandemic and public health considerations. The University of Maine System carefully monitors public health guidance and data, and will update its requirements, including this face covering requirement, as warranted. This face covering requirement specifically will be reviewed by October 31, 2021.  Continuation or easing of this protocol are both possible depending on circumstances. Further information is below.

Further information:

• The University of Maine System at this time also strongly recommends face coverings outdoors for all students, staff, faculty and visitors when the event or activity involves larger gatherings or crowded circumstances. This is a recommendation, not a requirement, at this time.
• Face coverings also continue to be welcomed in other circumstances when individuals choose to wear them as a matter of personal preference. There may be certain exceptions related to security-sensitive circumstances or other matters when face coverings must be removed.
• Exceptions to the indoor requirement:
  • When a person is alone in an office or other room with a closed door;
  • When eating or drinking in a space where eating or drinking is permitted;
  • When a medical accommodation has been granted by appropriate University of Maine System officials;
  • In other special circumstances as may be determined by campus leadership.
• Engagement is ongoing with faculty and staff to discuss face coverings for faculty and others in teaching and other particular roles with the goal of optimizing a safe and effective educational and campus experience.  At this time, the only exceptions to the requirement are those above.
• University of Maine System students and employees should also refer to the related guidance in the "For Students" or "For Employees" sections of this Together for Maine web site.

When face coverings are required to be worn, they are to be the type commonly recommended by public health officials. These are generally made of multiple layers of cloth, which cover the nose, mouth and chin and are secured either with ear loops or with ties behind the head.

The University asks everyone to aim for not mere technical compliance with the face covering requirement but rather to meet the spirit and intention of the face covering requirement when wearing your own face covering.

Note that this and all University guidance on COVID-19 is subject to change in accordance with the evolving circumstances of COVID-19.