Face coverings will be mandatory in commercial establishments, which includes, but is not limited to, retail and convenience stores; malls; enclosed farmers’ markets; libraries and community centres; and business offices open to the public, said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for the Regional Municipality of Durham, in an earlier statement.
This instruction also requires business owners to implement a policy for the use of non-medical masks or face coverings; and to use discretion, under that policy, to refuse entry when people are not wearing a face covering, he said.
There is growing public health evidence that widespread use of non-medical masks or face coverings—when used with other public health recommendations—is effective in the fight against Covid-19. This includes physical distancing in public spaces, frequently washing your hands, and staying home when you are sick, he added.
Regional officials did not specify the penalty in case of violation.
Exceptions
Non-medical masks or face coverings are mandatory for all community members, with the exception of those:
- Who have health, respiratory and sensory issues
- Various disabilities
- Are unable to remove the mask without assistance
- Children under the age of two
- Or other valid reason
- At home with immediate family members
- Eating on a restaurant patio
- In the workplace where other standards apply, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act
To learn more about non-medical masks and face coverings, including how to make one at home, visit durham.ca/novelcoronavirus. Business owners looking to source Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are invited to visit the Local PPE Directory link at InvestDurham.ca/CovidResponse.
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