Masks no longer mandatory for workers outside during extreme heat: CNESST
Surgical masks and other masks of "quality" are no longer mandatory for workers who are outdoors during periods of extreme heat, "even if the physical distance of one metre cannot be respected," the Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) announced Monday.
The temporary exception will be valid when a heat warning is issued by Environment Canada. It will end when temperatures drop below 30 degrees Celsius.
"Due to summer heat waves and the risks associated with excessive heat, we have made the decision, in collaboration with the CNESST and public health authorities, to allow the removal of masks in the workplace," said Labour Minister Jean Boulet.
The CNESST defines a "quality" mask as either a medical mask, a mask certified by the Bureau de normalisation du Québec (BNQ) or a respiratory protection device equipped with a particle filter.
The CNESST is also reminding companies to allow employees to have more frequent breaks, as well as provide places and means for refreshment.
As of June 7, the CNESST no longer requires the wearing of masks in workplaces that are zoned yellow or green, indoors or outdoors, provided that there is a physical distance or a physical barrier.
It is still mandatory to wear a mask when a regulations not related to COVID-19 demands it, such as in the presence of asbestos or silica.
For the general public, officials still recommend masks or face coverings be worn by people of different bubbles unless they are physically separated by one metre or are involved in swimming or water sports.
-- This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Aug. 2, 2021.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.