Bruce Power announced today that it will distribute an additional 150,000 masks to Bruce Power employees’ families, pensioners and local organizations across Bruce, Grey and Huron counties to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. This donation will be made over the summer months and will see the company reach nearly 1.5-million pieces of personal protective equipment (PPE) distributed.

Along with families and pensioners, the non-medical masks will be donated to a number of community organizations including Chambers of Commerce, Business Improvement Associations and food banks for use in retail and public settings throughout the tri-county area. The distribution of these supplies will help recipient organizations follow the public health guidance that recommends employees and customers in retail settings wear cloth masks or non-medical face coverings.

“Wearing a cloth mask or other non-medical face covering is a measure you can take to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, in addition to physical distancing and frequent hand washing,” said Dr. Ian Arra, Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer, Grey Bruce Public Health. “It’s important to remember that wearing a mask is not a replacement for physical distancing and that all preventative measures should continue to be maintained.

“As more retail locations continue to open to the public, we appreciate Bruce Power coming forward to pledge an additional donation of non-medical masks to assist local businesses and community services in their gradual reopening.”

In addition to masks, Bruce Power will also distribute ear protectors, which help reduce discomfort and irritation often experienced after prolonged use of ear loop-style masks. The ear protectors have been produced by nuclear operator Ron Miller, who has dedicated his time to make over 10,000 of the protectors for front-line workers. The donations announced today are expected to be made throughout the next two months.

“Thanks to the efforts of employees like Ron and our supply chain staff, along with our suppliers, we have been able to expand the commitment we made to the Ontario government back in April - to provide the province with 1.2-million pieces of PPE to assist in the fight against this ongoing pandemic,” said Mike Rencheck, President and CEO, Bruce Power. “We continue to urge the residents in the tri-county communities to listen to our medical professionals and take the necessary precautions to stay safe.”

source: media release, Bruce Power