St. Catharines council has passed a bylaw making it mandatory to wear a mask in enclosed spaces where physical distancing is not possible.
The bylaw passed unanimously after a lengthy discussion with Niagara Region’s Acting Medical Officer of Health Dr. Mustafa Hirji, where Hirji explained the science behind how masks can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 when physical distancing is impossible.
When asked how the bylaw will be enforced, the city says it is up to individual businesses to enforce the policy, or choose not to.
From the bylaw:
These measures are directed at the
operators of enclosed public spaces who are required to adopt a policy that prohibits
persons to enter or otherwise remain in the enclosed public space unless that person is
wearing a mask, subject to exemptions for specific individuals.
The operator is not required to enforce the policy or to refuse entry to anyone without a
mask; however, they are empowered by the bylaw to do so. Without a bylaw in place
some private businesses have already implemented some form of mask policy for their
establishments.
Businesses will also be required to provide hand sanitizer to customers upon entry.
Children under 10 will not be required to wear a mask.
You can read the bylaw on the city’s website, or by clicking here.
