As the second wave sweeps through B.C., expect more health orders on the way.
With the spike in the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in B.C., the provincial government has ordered that masks be worn in indoor public spaces.
Before the order was announced, wearing masks in public places was a recommendation from health officials but now those caught not wearing one indoors in public spaces can be fined. It means that if you have not been wearing a mask to the mall or grocery store, it is time to bring one but there are some exceptions.
Where do I have to wear a mask
Almost everywhere and it includes:
- Liquor and drug stores
- Malls, shopping centres, retail, grocery stores, and coffee shops
- Places of public worship
- Airports, city halls, libraries, community and recreation centres
- Restaurants, bars, and pubs
- On public transportation, in a taxi or ride-for-hire vehicle
- Common areas of office buildings, hospitals, courthouses, and hotels
- Common areas of sport and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity
- Common areas of post-secondary institutions and non-profit groups
What will happen if I do not wear a mask at these places?
You will be asked to leave or be fined. Anyone without a mask in an indoor public place or refuses to comply with the direction of an enforcement officer, including a direction to leave the space or responds with abusive or belligerent behavior faces a $230 fine.
If tickets do not act as a deterrent, or in cases of particularly egregious contraventions or for repeat offenders, police can recommend charges.
Who is exempt from wearing a mask?
People who cannot wear a mask or who cannot put on or remove a mask without the assistance of others are exempt. A person may not be able to wear a mask for a psychological, behavioral, or health condition or due to a physical, cognitive, or mental impairment.
Can I wear a face shield instead of a mask?
No. For this order, a mask or face covering is defined as a medical or non-medical mask that covers the nose and mouth. Face shields are not a substitute for a mask because there is an opening below the mouth
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LEARN MORE
Learn more about face masks and how to stay safe by enrolling in a mask fitting test which is a requirement for many workspaces and schools or the available masks for sale by visiting our face mask sale page.
Our courses maintain social distancing measures with reduced class sizes to maintain the minimum 2 meters apart along with the mandatory use of face masks and regular temperature checks. The venue of the courses undergo regular, enhanced cleaning and disinfection routines.
For more information about face masks, check out these sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-mask/art-20485449