U of A updates mask guidelines: to be worn at all times when indoors

Non-medical masks or face coverings will be required to be worn within all indoor spaces at the University of Alberta based on new guidelines.

Effective October 26, the university requires that all faculty, staff, students and visitors at all campuses wear non-medical face masks (masks) at all times in all university indoor common-use spaces to prevent COVID-19. This includes classrooms, labs, common areas in residences, and meeting rooms. As well, masks are to be worn outdoors when physical distancing cannot occur.

The previous guidelines, came into force in August, and only required masks to be worn in common areas including libraries, computer labs, washrooms, corridors, elevators, and lobbies.

The guidelines were updated on October 22 and posted to the U of A website.

“Masks are not a substitute for physical distancing,” the U of A said in their post. “They are to be used in combination with physical distancing and other safety measures.”

The exceptions to the new mask guidelines for masks include when an equivalent or higher personal protective equipment is already in use within a lab; when in personal residence units; when actively eating or drinking in designated areas; when in an enclosed single-user space like an office, cubicle, or study room; and when participating in an activity where a mask cannot be worn, like swimming.

Individuals exempt from the mask guidelines are those under the age of two years old, anyone unable to place or remove a mask themselves, anyone unable to wear a mask due to a mental or physical concern or limitation, and those providing care for people where a mask would prevent caregiving or assistance.

To qualify for an exemption, students must consult the Academic Success Centre while staff are to reach out to their supervisor.

Non-compliance with the requirement to wear a mask is subject to action under existing university policies, agreements and laws — including, but not limited to, the Code of Student Behavior. Not following campus safety protocols could result in denied access to campus and removal from campus. If non-compliance continues to occur, the U of A said its actions could escalate into a student’s expulsion and/or exclusion or an employee’s termination.

“Campus safety is a shared responsibility,” the U of A said. “The University of Alberta is committed to providing safe and healthy working, living and learning environments for students, faculty, staff, visitors and other community members during COVID-19 and beyond.”