The Minister of Transport, the Honourable Marc Garneau, has announced that he is expanding the requirements for the use of face coverings by workers and others involved in the transportation system, to reduce the risk of COVID-19. It also puts in place a more a comprehensive approach for face coverings that strengthens the protection of everyone involved in the transportation system. The measures will be implemented through a combination of mandatory orders and guidance across several sectors.
- Marine transportation recommends that all workers in the sector have in their possession a face covering, and recommend that face coverings be worn using a risk-based approach specific to the unique circumstances of the workplace, when physical distancing cannot be maintained, and/or when local authorities require it.
- Aviation will expand the existing face covering / non-medical mask requirements beyond passengers to include some flight crew and airport workers. These measures came into effect at noon EDT on June 4, 2020.
- Rail will issue guidance requiring rail operators to notify passengers that they will be asked to wear a face covering when physical distancing of two metres from others cannot be maintained, or as requested by rail operators; Provide or make accessible a face covering to all workers in the industry; and, ensure a face covering be worn by workers on a risk-based approach specific to the unique circumstances of the workplace, when physical distancing cannot be maintained, and/or when local authorities require it.
- Road will establish a set of practices for the use of personal protective equipment, including face coverings in road transportation (i.e., trucking, motor coach, transit), in collaboration with provinces, territories and industry.
