The information provided is subject to change as the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, for the most recent information please go to OttawaPublicHealth.ca/Coronavirus.
July 6, 2020 – City of Ottawa
Effective, Tuesday, July 7, 2020 as of 12:01 am Dr. Vera Etches, Medical Officer of Health for Ottawa Public Health has instructed every Operator of an Enclosed Public Space within the City of Ottawa to:
1. Adopt a policy to ensure that no member of the public is permitted to enter or remain in the public areas of the Enclosed Public Space unless he or she is wearing a mask in a manner that covers their nose, mouth and chin.
2. Those exempt from wearing a mask are:
-
- Children under two years of age, or children under the age of five years either chronologically or developmentally who refuse to wear a mask and cannot be persuaded to do so by their caregiver;
- Individuals with medical conditions rendering them unable to safely wear a Mask, including breathing difficulties or cognitive difficulties;
- Individuals who are unable to apply or remove a mask without assistance, including those who are accommodated under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) or who have protections under the Ontario Human Rights Code, R.S.O. 1990, c.H.19, as amended;
- A person who is employed by or is an agent of the Operator of an Enclosed Public Space and:
- is in an area of the premises that is not designated for public access, or
- is within or behind a physical barrier (e.g., Plexiglass).
3. Ensure the availability of alcohol-based hand rub at all entrances and exits for the use of all persons entering or exiting the establishment.
The policy will be primarily used as a means to educate people on mandatory mask use in enclosed public spaces. More information on the directive for Ottawa, including a FAQ, can be found here.
City Council will further explore the issue, with a motion to codify the directive in By-law at the July 15 Council meeting. More information on the motion will be provided in the days prior to the July 15 Council meeting.
Wearing a mask is an additional action to take in being COVIDWise and is not a substitute for the need for isolating yourself when sick, staying two metres apart from others and exercising proper hand hygiene.
Learn more about how to properly wear a mask, and where to purchase a mask at OttawaPublicHealth.ca/masks.