COVID-19 Face Coverings Directive

Purpose

The purpose of this Directive is to support efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the university community by establishing standards for wearing Face Coverings in indoor or enclosed spaces and outdoor spaces where physical distancing cannot be maintained in University Space to protect University Members.

Definitions

For the purposes of this Directive the following definitions apply:

“Face Covering” means a medical or non-medical mask, consistent with Public Health Guidance.

“Public Health Guidance” means the guidance of the Public Health Authority of Canada (PHAC), Ministry of Health, and Durham Region Health Department (DRHD). Where guidance from these organizations conflicts, the local health authority’s guidance prevails.                                    

“University Space” means any location owned, leased, rented or otherwise occupied by the University and made available for temporary use.

“University Member” means any individual who is:

• Employed by the University or holding an appointment with the University, including paid, unpaid and/or honorific appointments (“Employee”);
• Registered as a student, in accordance with the academic regulations of the University (“Student”); and/or
• Otherwise subject to University policies by virtue of the requirements of a specific policy (e.g. Booking and Use of University Space) and/or the terms of an agreement or contract.

Scope and authority

This Policy applies to all University Members in University Space and all other individuals in University Space.

The Provost and Vice-President Academic, or successor thereof, is the Policy Owner and is responsible for overseeing the implementation, administration and interpretation of this Directive.

Directive

Use of Face Coverings

1. University Members and all other individuals in University Space are expected to bring and wear a Face Covering when they arrive. Face Coverings are mandatory in all areas of University Space.

2. The University will set out specific directions for the use of Face Coverings in areas where discretion is necessary.

Exceptions to the use of Face Coverings:

1. Face Coverings are not required in outdoor University Space where physical distancing of at least two meters can be maintained.
2. Face Coverings are not required for Employees working alone in an enclosed personal office space assigned to
3. Areas where Face Covering can be removed to eat will be designated by signage.

4. A person is exempt from wearing a Face Covering in University Space if they are under the age of two years, or are under five years and refuse to wear a Face Covering.

Enforcement

1. This Directive is enacted and enforced in ‘good faith’ and will be used as an opportunity to educate about the use of non-medical masks or face coverings in premises where physical distancing may be difficult.

Face Coverings

1. A Face Covering protects others from your respiratory droplets but will not protect you from the droplets of others.
2. Follow Public Health Guidance about appropriate Face Coverings .    
3. Wash your hands before putting on your mask or taking it off. Avoid moving, adjusting or touching the mask. Change your mask by only touching the straps or ear loops as soon as it gets damp or soiled. Do not touch the front of the mask.
4. The use of Face Coverings is not a replacement for proven measures such as handwashing and physical distancing.

Accommodation

1. Ontario Tech University is committed to promoting an environment where everyone has an equal opportunity to contribute to their fullest potential and where all are treated with sensitivity, fairness and respect. The University has policies and procedures to assist those who require accommodation. For more information about the University’s accommodation procedures, please refer to the Policy library [link]. If you require accommodation, please speak to a person of authority.

Monitoring and review

This Directive will be reviewed as necessary and at least every year and is subject to change at any time in accordance with Public Health Guidance. The Provost and Vice-President, Academic, or successor thereof, is responsible to monitor and review this Directive and related public health direction.

Relevant legislation

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Related policies, procedures & documents

Booking and Use of University Space Policy
Booking and Use of University Space Procedures
Student Conduct Policy
Procedures for Accommodating for Employees and Job Applicants with Disabilities

Procedures for Academic Accommodation for Students with Disabilities