Originally, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) was not allowing all of its staff to wear N95 or surgical masks while on duty inside correctional facilities. Only those working with sick inmates could.
"We had members who tried to bring in their own N95 mask and were turned around and were told, ‘You’re not allowed to bring that in,’” said Mark DeBurgomaster, the Western Region vice president of NYSCOPBA, the union representing corrections officers.
But Wednesday, Acting Commissioner Anthony Annucci gave the “OK” to allow all staff members to wear the masks inside correctional facilities.
The concern is high.
DeBurgomaster says dozens of officers have already been placed under quarantine.
As of Wednesday, the Wende Correctional Facility had six officers test positive and 135 quarantined.
"The department is still only going to issue masks for medical necessity, but at least members can bring in their own," he said.
In response to the rule change, NYSCOPBA has purchased 22,000 N95 masks for all their members.
DeBurgomaster hopes all members will get them by next week.
"We are purchasing enough masks for every member to be issued one. This is outside of the department. This is coming from union funds to supply these masks," said DeBurgomaster.
This push also came from State Senator Pat Gallivan, who sent a letter to the governor Tuesday, asking for corrections officers and prison staff to get basic personal protection.
"The department is slowly turning around. They have caught up to all the demands that we asked for a month ago," he explained.
As for inmates, certain cases are given masks and protection when necessary.
Gloves, gowns, and shields have also been issued for those working in the prison in certain cases as well.
For the around 21,500 correction officers and law enforcement that NYSCOPBA covers, DeBurgomaster says they will continue to push for the safety of all their members.
"We don't like to compromise on our members’ health," he said.