Board of Health clarifies definition of public spaces

With the COVID transmission level currently at “substantial,” the recently adopted indoor mask mandate remains in effect in public spaces across the town of Canton. In response to questions about what constitutes a public space, the Board of Health offered the following definition: “A public space is defined as any place, whether licensed or unlicensed, that is open to and accepts or solicits the patronage of the general public. This includes but is not limited to restaurants, banks, retail establishments, gyms and indoor fitness centers, performance spaces and theaters, museums, and cultural and historical sites.”

According to the BOH, private work areas that do not allow access to the public are not subject to the mask mandate.

Individuals and businesses that are found to be in violation of the mask order are subject to civil penalties. A first offense requires that the violator review and sign off on a COVID information packet supplied by the Health Department or pay a $50 fine. Second and subsequent offenses carry a $100 fine.

Business owners with questions about the mask mandate are encouraged to call the Health Department at 781-821-5021. “We will be happy to discuss the implementation of the mask mandate with any business,” said Public Health Director Barbara Reardon.

To review a copy of the emergency regulation and related addendum, visit town.canton.ma.us/139/Board-of-Health.

Canton risk level still at ‘substantial’

The Canton Board of Health reported 23 new cases of COVID-19 during the week of September 24-30 and the transmission level remains at “substantial,” according to CDC guidelines. In the Canton school system, three new cases were reported last week — one each at the Hansen, JFK and Luce elementary schools.

Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=77255

Posted by Canton Citizen on Oct 8 2021. Filed under News, Town Government. Both comments and pings are currently closed.