Masking to Remain Mandatory in Clinical Areas at Huron Health System

April 24, 2023

Masking to Remain Mandatory in Clinical Areas at Huron Health System

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the Huron Health System has worked closely with our partners in infection prevention and control to ensure patients, staff, physicians, and families/caregivers are safe and protected while in our hospitals. Along with our partner hospitals throughout the South West Region, and based upon the most recent Public Health Ontario guidance, updates will be made to our Universal Masking Policy to better reflect current health and safety risks.

Effective Monday, April 24, 2023 masking is recommended but not required in non-clinical areas of our hospitals. Masking will be required when in any clinical area of our hospitals. Hospital-provided medical-grade masks will continue to be provided with masking stations set up throughout our hospital sites.

What This Means for Our Patients, Staff, Physicians Families/Caregivers and Visitors

Masking is Required in Clinical Areas
Masking is required in all clinical areas where patient care is provided. This includes:
• Inpatient Units
• Emergency Department
• Outpatient Clinics
• Imaging
• Lab
• Waiting Rooms

Masking is recommended, but not required, in Non-Clinical Areas
Masking is recommended, but not required, in public spaces and non-clinical areas. This includes:
• Hallways
• Elevators
• Cafeterias
• Meeting Rooms
• Administrative Offices

It is important to note that Universal Masking may be reintroduced based on disease activity, during the respiratory season, and for outbreak management.