Face shields and goggles are no longer just an added protection, but a necessary one for frontline workers according to the Alberta Health Services.
A memo sent out updates AHS’s personal protective equipment to include continuous eye protection for all frontline workers who work directly with patients.
The agency defines that as working face-to-face within two meters. Face shields, goggles, and safety glasses are all-sufficient.
The change was made to align its guidance with that of the Public Health Agency of Canada and informed by months of learned experience. The mask-goggles combo is considered appropriate protection for staff working closely with COVID-19 patients and eliminates the risk of spreading the virus.
With the addition of continuous eye protection to the PPE Guidance, it ensures that the staff are protected while avoiding staff quarantine after caring for patients who may have unrecognized COVID-19 infection at the time of interaction.
AHS is supplying workers with eye protection, although employees may be allowed to bring their own approved equipment.
For more information about this story, click here to learn.
LEARN MORE
Learn more about face masks and how to stay safe by enrolling in a mask fitting test which is a requirement for many workspaces and schools or the available masks for sale by visiting our face mask sale page.
Our courses maintain social distancing measures with reduced class sizes to maintain the minimum 2 meters apart along with the mandatory use of face masks and regular temperature checks. The venue of the courses undergo regular, enhanced cleaning and disinfection routines.
For more information about face masks, check out these sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/coronavirus-mask
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-mask/art-20485449