Business owners in Huron and Perth counties will soon be required to use face coverings, to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Medical Officer of Health for Huron and Perth counties, Dr. Miriam Klassen, says the rule of face coverings will take effect Friday, July 17th.
A face covering means a medical or non-medical mask or other face coverings such as a bandana, a scarf or cloth that covers the mouth and nose. Certain exemptions apply, for example, based on medical circumstances.
The face masks will also be required for patrons entering a business in Huron and Perth counties.
“As we work towards a successful Stage 3 re-opening, we also increase the risk of spreading the virus. Normalizing the use of masks helps reduce this risk and helps keep businesses and services up and running. We ask everyone to be kind and understanding when others can’t wear masks, and to physically distance from them.”
The instructions are being issued under the authority of the provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.
While the rule will be in place next Friday, health officials say there is not a requirement that a business turn away a customer.
This “good faith” enforcement framework is in line with Huron Perth Public Health enforcement, which builds on education and reminders.