Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

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Note: this information is found in the following document published by CUPE on February 24, 2020 and intended for healthcare workers. 

CUPE is recommending that health care settings use PPE for routine practices and additional precautions to reduce risk of exposure to contact, droplet and airborne infectious diseases.  

Public Health Ontario sets out the following minimum precautions in the case of novel respiratory infections:  

• A fit-tested, seal-checked N95 respirator covering the nose and mouth:  
• When entering the client/patient/resident’s room  
• When within two meters of the client/patient/resident.  
• Eye protection when within two meters of the client/patient/resident.  
• Gloves and gown to enter the client/patient/resident’s room.  
• A mask to be worn by the client/patient/resident when outside his or her room or the care area and hand hygiene performed on exiting the room.  

Employers have a duty under the Occupational Health and Safety Act to provide PPE and ensure it is maintained and in good condition. PPE is appropriate where providing it would increase the safety of employees by more than a minimal amount.  

If an employer does not provide appropriate PPE, members should:  

• fill out a workplace health and safety concern form  
• inform a worker representative of their Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee 
• inform their steward/unit chair.