CT Coronavirus: Stop & Shop Staff Must Wear Masks

CONNECTICUT — Stop & Shop is now requiring store associates at Connecticut locations to wear masks at all times while working as "an added step to make stores even safer" amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The policy went into effect Wednesday and is effective until further notice, the supermarket chain said in a news release.

Stop & Shop has distributed masks to all store associates, store officials said. If an associate wishes to wear his or her own mask or personal covering, it must be clean and cover the nose and mouth, according to the announcement. Alternatives could a scarf, bandana or a gaiter, officials added.

Stop & Shop is also encouraging customers to wear masks and practice social distancing while in the store. New signs have been posted at stores.

Stop & Shop has installed plexiglass guards at checkout aisles and enhanced

The new requirements are designed to boost other safety measures previously put into place by Stop & Shop that include social distancing protocols, plexiglass guards and enhanced cleaning and sanitation processes.

The moves "will help us continue to keep associates and customers safe while fulfilling the essential role of providing food to our communities," officials said.