Back to Top Important information about properly and safely wearing a mask - The Ottawa Hospital
 

At The Ottawa Hospital, masking continues to be mandatory for all staff, visitors, patients and Essential Care Partners.

Wearing a mask adds an extra layer of protection from the respiratory illnesses circulating in our community, such as COVID-19, flu, RSV and more. While the provincial mask mandate expired on June 11, 2022, The Ottawa Hospital’s masking policy remains in place.

When you arrive at one of our sites, please:

  1. sanitize your hands
  2. take a medical mask from one of the dispensers that have been installed at our entrances
  3. wear the mask so it covers your mouth and nose.

Please see below for more information on how to properly wear your mask.

Remember, wearing a mask does not replace the need to:

  • Physical distance by staying two metres (six feet) or more away from others.
  • Clean your hands often.
  • Stay at home if you are sick or have been instructed to do so by Public Health or your health-care provider.

How to safely wear a mask

  1. Clean your hands before putting on your mask.
  2. Always wear a clean mask (or unused mask, if disposable) for each visit.
  3. The mask must cover both your nose and your mouth and not slide down your face.
  4. Mold the metal band to the bridge of your nose
  5. Do not touch the front of the mask while you are wearing it.
  6. Wear your mask the entire time you are in the hospital.
  7. If you must remove your mask for any reason, or are removing it when you leave:
    1. Clean your hands and remove the mask by taking it off by the ear loops.
    2. Do not touch the front of the mask or your face.
    3. Discard disposable masks in the garbage or a container designated for this purpose.
    4. Clean your hands immediately after you remove your mask.

If you are using a cloth mask in the community, here are some helpful cleaning tips:

How to safely clean a cloth mask

  1. Your cloth mask should be replaced at least daily, or when dirty or moist.
  2. Clean your cloth mask in hot water with regular laundry detergent.
  3. Discard your mask if it cannot be cleaned or is damaged.

Visit the Ottawa Public Health website for other helpful mask resources.

Last updated on: March 8th, 2023