The Los Angeles Police Department is working to help prevent its officers from contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) through a series of new guidelines and procedures and by issuing new gear.
Asst. Chief Horace Frank told the Los Angeles Times that all patrol officers and officers likely to come into contact with infected people have been issued a kit consisting of multiple sets of gloves, a bacteria protection mask and goggles.
Officers are directed to use all three items during a response or public contact involving an induvial who could have the virus.
The department has already backordered 100,000 extra masks, but the officers will not wear masks as a routine matter.
The guidelines cover procedures for cleaning and disinfecting work areas, vehicles, and equipment, as well as instructions on when to don protection. Officers are also asked to stay home if sick.
