It seems that face masks are going to be the hottest fashion accessory for the foreseeable future at Mac Campus. As of 18 July, 2020, masks are MANDATORY in all public spaces in Montreal and surrounding area. This includes all campuses of the University of McGill.
Key Points of McGill’s policy on masks
Where and when masks are required:
- when entering and circulating in any McGill building
- this includes entrance and reception areas, elevators, corridors, staircases, common areas and washrooms
- when in “close quarters”, i.e. when physical distancing (2 metre distance) cannot be respected (due to physical positioning required by an experiment or research/work-related procedure)
Where and when masks are not required:
- when not circulating in common spaces, if 2-metre physical distancing can be respected
- when protected by appropriate physical barriers, or if alone in a closed office, unit or dedicated lab space
- when working in a laboratory in a dedicated 16 m2 area (lab bay)
- if you have a health condition that precludes wearing a mask or face covering
- if you are performing an experiment that requires PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) that would require removal of the masks, or requires removal of the mask for safety reasons (for example, if your face has to be super close to a Bunsen burner)
If you don’t have a mask:
- a disposable mask can be provided to you on request, but McGill encourages you to bring your own face covering
- see these handy instructions for making either a very simple no-sew mask, a sewn mask, and a windowed mask, so people can see your mouth when you speak: Wearing a Face Covering (Handcrafted Mask) in Public Settings
Know the proper use and handling of a mask:
- Hands should be washed before and after removing the mask or face covering.
- Remove mask or face covering by the ear straps and avoid touching the front of it.
- Mask or face covering must be worn covering the mouth and nose.
- Replace the mask or face covering if it becomes damp or soiled.
I hope these reminders are useful to you. Wearing a mask is integral to our ongoing and ever-increasing ramp-up of research and other activities on campus. I hope to see you back in the office in the fall! Hint: I’ll be the one wearing a mask… ;)
Stay healthy, stay safe.