The CDC offers guidance on how to protect workers from violent anti-mask customers, including safe rooms and installing 'panic buttons'

• The CDC offered companies new guidance on how to protect employees from violence related to COVID-19 safety policies, such as mask orders and social distancing requirements.
• The CDC suggested installing security equipment, such as panic buttons, and identifying a safe room where workers can avoid violent customers.
• In recent months, employees have faced harassment and assault from customers who have refused to social distance, wear face coverings, and follow other safety measures.

The threat of anti-mask violence has swelled to a point where the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is advising companies on how to keep employees safe.

This week, the CDC released new guidance on how retailers and restaurants can prevent workplace violence as employees attempt to enforce new COVID-19 safety policies. In recent months, employees have faced harassment and assault from customers who have refused to social distance, wear face coverings, and follow other safety measures.

Some of the CDC's preventative solutions include putting up signs about mask requirements and offering services that allow customers to minimize their contact with others, such as curbside pickup and delivery.

If staffing permits, the CDC advised that two employees should work as a team to encourage customers to follow COVID-19 policies, such as wearing a face mask. The CDC also suggested installing security equipment — such as panic buttons and cameras — and identifying a safe area for employees to go to if they are in danger, such as "a room that locks from the inside, has a second exit route, and has a phone or silent alarm."

The CDC advised employees against arguing with customers if they make threats or become violent. Further, the guidance advised against attempting "to force anyone who appears upset or violent to follow COVID-19 prevention policies."

Instead, employees are advised to be aware of warning signs, such as customers swearing, pacing, and clenching their fists. If a customer makes threats or becomes violent, workers should go to a safe area.

Many major companies, including Walmart, Starbucks, and McDonald's, have rolled out national mask policies in recent months. But, even before retailers released their own policies, many employees were tasked with enforcing local government orders around social distancing and face coverings.

Anti-mask customers have clashed with employees at a number of stores around the US, including viral confrontations at Costco and Target. Some restaurants decided to re-close their dining rooms after staff faced harassment from customers who refused to wear masks. Employees at Waffle House, McDonald's, and Chili's have been attacked in recent months after attempting to enforce COVID-19 related safety measures.

"Threats and assaults can happen in any workplace, but may be more likely to occur in retail, services (e.g., restaurants), and other customer- or client-based businesses," the CDC said this week in its recently released guidance.