Per an internal memo obtained by Bloomberg on Tuesday, Apple plans to start requiring its Apple Store retail staff to test for COVID-19 infections twice a week, no matter their vaccination status, although the company is also easing its test verification policies. Apple will also be allowing staff members to independently verify their test results.
“Based on what we’ve learned from our testing pilot, everyone will now be required to self-test twice per week, regardless of vaccination status,” Apple told employees. “In addition, if you were submitting your test results for verification, you’re no longer required to do so.”
The updated rules appear to be a step towards lifting overall mask requirements for employees. Apple said it was “reviewing our face mask guidance for team members,” but urged employees to continue wearing a face mask while in stores.
Apple added that it is “hopeful that case numbers remain low and these protocols will be in effect for the foreseeable future.”
Apple listed customer mask requirements at most of its retail locations back in February, and also dropped some employee mask mandates in specific U.S. states like Ohio and Georgia.
Apple began ramping up its Covid-19 testing program in August 2021 for both corporate and retail staffers. The company has never implemented any sort of vaccine mandate for its employees, however, citing privacy concerns.
Via AppleInsider and Bloomberg