SAH Reinstates Mandatory Masking

October 10, 2023 – Due to a detectable increase in COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses in our community, Sault Area Hospital (SAH) is reinstating its mandatory masking policy, effective Wednesday, October 11, 2023.

All Health Care Workers and Members of the Public (patients/clients and essential caregivers/visitors) must wear a mask or face covering upon entering Sault Area Hospital or SAH’s Community-based locations. Hospital-approved masks will be provided at all entrances.

Health Care Workers
Health Care Workers are required to wear masks in public areas of any SAH site, when having direct contact with a patient or visitor, and in all areas of patient care units. Additional personal protective equipment, such as gowns and eye protection, may be required for patients under additional precautions or when a unit is experiencing an outbreak. Signage will be posted on these rooms or units to inform all those who enter about PPE requirements.

Members of the Public
All Members of the Public (patients/clients and essential caregivers/visitors) must wear a mask or face covering upon entering Sault Area Hospital or SAH’s Community-based locations.

Patients/Clients are not required to wear a mask in the following circumstances:

  1. The patient has a valid mask exemption; AND/OR
  2. Admitted patients while in their assigned room; however, they must don a hospital-provided mask when leaving their assigned room for any reason; AND/OR
  3. Temporary removal of the mask or face covering is permitted where necessary for the following purposes:
    1. Actively engaging in an athletic or fitness activity, including water-based activities; OR
    2. Consuming food or drink; OR
    3. For any emergency or medical purpose.

Mandatory Masking does not apply to children under the age of two and those who are unable to wear a face covering as a result of a medical condition or disability.

COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses continue to circulate in our community. Please continue to follow the advice of medical experts when it comes to masking if you are not feeling well, and check with your primary care providers whether you are due for vaccinations.

We appreciate the public’s continued patience and understanding of past and present measures to reduce the opportunity for respiratory virus transmission in our hospital settings.

The safety and well-being of our HCWs, patients, and visitors at SAH are paramount.

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