The government is implementing policies in an attempt to limit the spread of COVID-19. Face masks will be required inside all publicly-accessible buildings in St. Albert which will be effective next Saturday after the city council voted to take the step in boosting the safety protocols.
Following in the footsteps of Edmonton, the councilors significantly amended the proposed face mask bylaw by mandating them in public indoor spaces, including retail stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, and vehicle-for-hire services.
Those found in non-compliance could be subject to a $100 fine but there are several exemptions to the rule. Individuals unable to place or remove a face covering without assistance or due to a mental or physical disability will not be required to wear a face mask. The rule is not applicable when consuming food or drink in a designated area, engaging in physical exercise or water activity, or participating in a dance, theatrical, or music performance as long as two-meter distancing is maintained.
Unlike in Edmonton, the councilors decided to increase the age of exemption to nine and under to fall in line with the province’s school mask mandate in which masks are required for those in Grade 4 and higher.
For more information about this story, click here.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/cloth-face-coverings-information.pdf
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/types-of-face-mask
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html