Canada Post is currently providing its mask staff with an upgraded medical procedure for their shifts, and anyone who wants to wear their own mask will have to double it.
In a statement on Thursday, a Canada Post spokesperson said the elimination of “three-layer reusable cloth masks or disposable medical masks” is part of the company’s “relentless efforts.” to strengthen anti-pandemic safety measures”.
“The mandatory practice of face coverings, using company-supplied masks, is an important part of our efforts to keep employees safe during the pandemic,” the statement noted. “The move to Level 2 medical masks will provide better protection for employees while continuing to meet or exceed PHAC standards.”
Canada Post began delivering these masks in early January to employees in facilities with high rates of COVID-19 infection, but now plans to distribute six million of these masks company-wide by the end of January. end of February.
“To date, these respirators have been warmly received by employees due to their ease of use and enhanced protection,” the statement noted.
Last week, it was reported that Canada Post employees could be forced to take unpaid leave if they wear their own N95 masks and refuse to wear a cloth mask issued by the company, even though the N95 is a copy of the original. safety upgrade.
Employees must still wear the mask provided by the company, and anyone who wants to wear their own mask will have to wear a mask provided by the company.
“This approach ensures that every employee is protected while meeting external standards and directives developed by experts to ensure employers, like Canada Post, always put their safety first. All to the fore,” the statement noted.
There will be respirators that require respirators, such as the N95, but only for employees who complete “higher-risk tasks,” such as activities that require two employees to be in close proximity. .
“With more than 50,000 employees at work sites around the country, requiring respirators to be safely used with fit tests is not feasible in the short term,” the statement read.
“Starting with three of our main facilities, we will work with the Local General Health and Safety Commission (LJHSC) to use these respirators under controlled conditions. , with plans to expand further.”
